An Emotional Journey with Tony Real

with Shawn Overson

Shawn: I am sitting here with Tony Real, a fellow Valley High School student who has a gift he would like to share with us today. Tony, what special talent are you sharing with us today?

Tony: My special talent is making myself cry. If I can think of something upsetting and in about 3 minutes, I’ll be crying.

S: That is pretty incredible. So, how did you find out you were capable of this?

T: I was watching a really sad movie while squinting really hard, and my eyes just started to tear up. I then realized that I could make myself cry on command. It’s been somewhat helpful in my life from time to time, believe it or not.

S: That is truly hilarious and quite amazing at the same time. So my next question is what are some situations where you have had to use this particular skill?

T: Ummm, I think I could be a really great emotional actor. I’ve had to use it multiple times when interacting with my dad, because often he doesn’t like to listen. It can be a useful tool when I’m communicating and trying to get a point across in a more effective way. One time, there was an awesome ride at Lagoon and I really wanted to ride it, and I was old and tall enough to ride it, but my mom didn’t want to let me, so I began to put on my act, and used it to get my way. It ended up working out and I had a really good time.

S: I noticed you mentioned acting, is that something you would want to pursue and/or see yourself doing in the future?

T: Yea, hella. I feel like I am good at putting myself in emotional scenarios of other people, and I think I would do a great job at portraying almost any character I would be put up to. I love a good challenge.

S: That’s awesome Tony, I wish you the best of luck with that. Let me know how it goes. Do you have anything else you want to share with me before we wrap it up here?

T: Yes absolutely. Developing this skill has become a part of me, and I have developed in such a way that I have a different understanding of what is truly upsetting to me, I know what really shakes my core, and what doesn’t. I am very in touch with my emotions and I’m thankful for that.

S: I love that man, I wish more people would have that deep connection with themselves and their emotional being more often than we unfortunately see in today’s world. Thank you for sitting down with me Tony. I have learned a lot from you today. I hope you continue to embark on your journey with your emotions, and I wish you the best luck in regards to your future acting career.