Vencedores: Língua Estrangeira - Escalão A - 1.º Prémio

Me, a citizen in democracy

Here I am. At the top of the chain. Looking mighty proud. With the power in my hands to fight for my country. To make it better. And I shall not lose this fight, for I have the best weapons: sharp words, a clever mind and a strong will.

Though I keep a perfect smile, my chest feels tight and tense, sweat is sinking on my back, and my mouth is trying to yell out of anxiety. However, my control is flawless. My hands welcome a crowd of hundreds in this round room, as my mind's begging for the law that will change this country, for the law that could save millions. My carefully chosen words flow through my tongue, no mistakes in my speech. I am fighting for my country, and therefore I must not falter. And though I feel every fibre in my body telling me I should yell for understanding, I keep my tone calm.

The audience studies me with their eyes and their ears. They must find the error, the thing that will break my arguments, that will take my power away. And though I feel like destroying them, I mustn't. For that is not the way of democracy. Instead, I must win their hearts with my voice.

I remember the days, weeks, and months I spent building the perfect speech, training my voice and body language to its maximum, ensuring a perfect delivery, and preparing my body and mind to never bow to the pressure. I know I have done everything in my power to help this country. And yet, somehow, somewhere inside me, I judge myself, telling myself I could do more, I could've prepared more, that I am not enough.

I ignore such voices, for anxiety and nervous feelings have no place in such a consequential debate like this one. Such is that neither of these thoughts has broken the rhythm of my words and the tone of my voice. Such is my will and strength, the most vital qualities in a politician like me.

As I finish my speech, as I drive my last blow and as I finish my quest and await the reward, I feel like falling, getting on my knees, crying as loud as I can and punching as hard as I can the nearest thing. However, I stay still with a great poker face.

And as the perfect smile gains double its size, a crowded room applauds my victory. I have won the hearts of hundreds. I have accomplished my biggest wish. I changed my home for the better.

After a short session of deputies voting in favour of my law, I know that millions will get the help they deserve. 
I feel my body relaxing, a need to sit, and weak sighs escaping my throat. I allow the wish to my body and sit back, thanking the room with a hand.

Democracy sure takes me to my limits. I love it.