In the corner she hides.

Not invisible, but wishing she were.

Holding her breath.

Pleading, “Don’t call on me–I don’t know.”

Her head peaks up.

A well-spoken word, inspiration from her teacher.

Nudging gently.

She softens her face–a smile.

Her eyes light up.

A handwritten note, encouragement from her teacher.

Extending grace.

She wants to practice–to try.

In the corner she waits.

Hand raised, now feeling empowered.

Willing to engage.

Beaming, “Call on me–I know.”