Not many people know this about me, but for many, many years now I have coped with tinnitus, a constant ringing in my ears. It is part of the reason that when conversing with friends I am constantly asking them to repeat themselves, and why I always have the volume up loud on the television or while listening to music, and why I sometimes talk too loud.  I’ve gotten used to it and have sort of grown a callous around it .

Today is day one of rehearsals for Troilus and Cressida. The Stage Manager has sent out schedules and has placed calls. He has beautifully set up our expectations for the day and for the entire rehearsal period. It promises to be a physically and mentally challenging rehearsal. There will be movement sessions and even a “bootcamp” for some military training. (all those years I served in the Marine Corps will finally pay off)

Knowing that it will be a demanding rehearsal I went to bed early last night and, lucky me, dropped right off. I awoke this morning after nearly 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. As I lay in the gray of the morning, gazing at the hot red numerals on the digital clock across the room, watching the numerals change to 6:51, the decades long ringing in my ears suddenly stopped. Is this an omen? I think so. I think it’s going to be a wonderful day.