BEVERLY writes:
The posters are up. You know they arrive on Sunday as they always arrive on Sunday, so you anxiously wait around.
It is getting late and there is no sight of them. Had I read the posters wrong? Then the sound of trucks fill the house and you know they are here. You can feel the energy, the giddiness passing trough your veins.
Lights, clowns, music and an air of festivities. The circus has arrived. The feeling is contagious and as a 30-odd-year-old I am transported back to a time when I was no older than 10.
The tent is up and I am first in line for tickets. This year I am fortunate enough to watch two of your shows. I absolutely cannot wait.
Like many out there, I love animals. More than humans actually. For some reason, the circus gets a lot of flack for their animals. So, I too was apprehensive.
Year after year McLaren amazes me with the condition of their animals. These animals are gorgeous, healthy and happy.
Year after year I go watch the show and year after year I fall more in love. The animal tamer (I wish I knew his name), you are amazing. You parent these animals as if they were your children. In actual fact, I believe these animals are treated better than most children.
The ring master (wish I knew your name too), your love for children and their happiness is infectious. You go out of your way to make each and every child feel welcome and comfortable, both during and after the show. From walking around looking at the animals (an invasion of your private space) to waiting for the circus to start, you always afford a smile to those around.
To each and every performer, wow. Your artistic and performing abilities amaze me. Your love for what you do can be felt throughout each and every act. Your love for the circus is infectious and I am in awe of your abilities and talents.
And then the last show, the day you dread. It hits me hard. No more festivities. No more clowns. No more music. The tent comes down and on they move.
Taking a piece of you with them on their endless journeys. Going to spread the love in the next town. If only all our days could be circus days, what an amazing world we would live in.
To the team of McLaren Circus, may your good fortune never run dry. May your cup always run over and may you be blessed beyond measure. You have captured our hearts and will forever stay there.
