noun
a delusion (common in paranoia) that you are much greater and more powerful and influential than you really are
— definition from dictionary.com

I’ve been watching the “American Idol” audition shows for the past few weeks. Season six, and it still amazes me.

How can so many people go out for these auditions thinking they have the talent to win, when they are completely tone deaf? Or sound like screeching cats? Or sing monotonously without any emotion?

Sure, I know only the best of the best (and worst of the worst) actually make it on TV. And, it’s mostly the truly awful ones that make the cut. It’s usually obvious when people know they’re bad, but just want to get on TV. They’re the ones with goofy costumes and gimmicks.

But the ones leaving in tears? They really thought they had a chance. (Could they act that well when they sing so poorly?)

I feel bad for them.

As a singer, I know my limitations. Even if I wasn’t too old for the show, I would never have tried out.

For starters, I’m terrible in auditions. I’m always far too nervous that only a fraction of my usual voice will come out. Karaoke terrifies me — I dragged myself to do it only once, after a few drinks!

I’ve never been a soloist. I’ve been singing in choirs since I was young, but I have no confidence when I’m out there on my own. Someday I’d like to take some lessons so I can become a more confident, competent singer.

Not so I can be a superstar, just for me.

Besides, I doubt they’d raise the maximum audition age again!