I was sitting in my virtual zoom speaking class when I shared the story of my most recent miracle.
It started when I stumbled across a Facecrack post from comedian Janae Burris. She was offering a class for the Comedy Curious. Something in me lit up. What a perfect way to honor this new chapter—my youngest heading off into the world as an adult, and me reclaiming parts of myself that have been quietly waiting their turn.
Before committing, I wanted to feel her energy in person. So, I showed up at Comedy Works in Denver for a New Talent Night, imagining a cozy group swapping stories and seeing if they got laughs.
I’ve never been to a comedy club before—or at least, not that I can remember. I arrived early, around 6:00 PM for a 7:30 show, and put my name on the list with a big, fat N next to it. N for newbie. That’s when Chris the bartender kindly let me in on how it all works. Two minutes. That’s all you get. If you get picked off the standby list.
The groggy man at the ticket counter told me I wouldn’t get picked—I didn’t sign up online, and it was my first time. The comedians in the lobby, clearly local legends, echoed the same sentiment: “No way you’re getting a set tonight.” And I thought—What’s a set, anyway?
Still, I put my name down. I had a couple stories I thought were funny (or at least funny-adjacent). Somehow, by the grace of God or comedy angels, I got picked. I was going on stage.
I knew nothing about punchlines, timing, or delivery. I just wanted to talk to Janae Burris about her class. And now here I was—on stage—wondering if people would laugh at me or with me or anything in between.
Right before I walked on, I heard my therapist’s voice in my head:
“Helene, stop caring what people think. Don’t take it personally. Some people will love you, some people won’t. And it can change week to week.”
OK, guru. Got it.
The lights were bright. I stepped up and mumbled something about therapists who tell you don’t care what others think and speaking coaches who say never turn down stagetime. Just as I was about to launch into a story about not landing the job I’d always wanted—the mic dropped. Time was up.
Already?
But here’s what matters: I showed up. And when you show up for life—really show up—miracles do happen.
I may not walk on water, but I can hold a mic and speak the whispers of my heart.
Are you ready for miracles? Let’s talk.
Be Brilliant! Be You!
Helene Rose
Helene Rose guides you to your brilliance, into your heart, and into the Heart of All That Is. Join the Be Brilliant Network community to practice shining from within. Listen to the podcast for your Daily Energy Alignment. Schedule your Brilliance Coaching session.
