Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Dancing Your Joy

When my sister started college in September, I told her I’d take a class with her. Unfortunately, most of her classes were in the daytime, while I was busy home-schooling my daughter. So, she suggested an African Dance class on Friday nights. At first I said no. I’ve got a pretty funky rhythm, one that doesn’t conform to any recognizable dance patterns. Oh, there was a trail of reasons. But, in the end, none of them really made sense. So, before I could think about it any further, I said yes. Every Friday we walked to class together and danced together for three hours. I needed it. Darkness was swallowing me. I needed to bring some light into my body. It was great fun. Our dance group was wonderful, the teacher was fantastic, and there were live drummers! The only thing I didn’t like was when we had to lead a dance move—and the mounting dread about the final performance. Since the final wasn’t required, I decided that I wouldn’t do it. No, uh-uh, no way. My sister, as usual, was very understanding. She would do it whether I did it or not. After wrestling with this No Monster that lives in me, I said yes. The Monster was still there backstage, subdued, but not without great force. It was scary. But I did it and am thankful. I’m thankful for my sister. I am inspired by her willing and open spirit. Thank you for dancing your joy, sis. And HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!

6 comments:

  1. Oh, fabulous! I took African Dance at UC Davis many years ago, and I remember loving it much more than I thought that I would. Didn't realize that they have this at ARC. Neat!

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  2. That's so much fuuun! I got tearful half-way through, how odd! I think I felt something liberating in this performace, for you. I'm so happy you found joy and dance.

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  3. Jennifer, I've never been, but Fenix Drum and Dance has classes at Sierra 2 on Saturdays--African drumming from 4-5, and African dancing from 5-6:30. Kids are welcome, too! My teacher will not be teaching at ARC anymore (with budget cuts and all), but she'll be doing something in the community this next year. If you're interested, I'll let you know!

    Oh, Mon, it was just what I needed--something earthy, too, not a delicate dance--something where I could be in my body and feel it's power. Hugs!!!

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  4. This is SO amazing....something about the drumming and the earthy rhythms...storytelling in the most ancient of ways...LOVE it!!

    I got a bit choked-up myself...:) Such power there, yes...

    xo

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  5. Awesomeness! And yes - earthy! And ecstatic! I just want to get up there and dance too...

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  6. Mel and Nettles--it was amazing. Definitely something I want to seek more of. I wish you could dance with us, too, my other sisters! :) Wouldn't that be awesome?!

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