Mid-way through Seth Godin’s latests book, What To Do When It’s Your Turn (and it’s always your turn) the words “dance with fear” jumped off the page because dancing is my passion. Soon my mind was filled with memories of walking into my first dance class — in my early-fifties.
It began the day I spoke with my friend, Liz, after a Pilates workout. When I inquired why I hadn’t seen her for a few months she told me she was taking salsa dancing lessons.
“I’ve always wanted to learn how to dance,” I offered, enthusiastically.
Liz gave me Anastasia’s phone number and encourage me to get in touch with her, adding “She’s looking for followers.”
Two days later I walked into my first dance studio.
“Can you believe the room is full of attractive single men who want to dance…and no women? I need to put this on YouTube!” remarked Anastasia.
My dance partners spun me around until I felt like vomiting, but I kept coming back because 20 years prior my ex-fiance, a Parisian, accused me of “dancing like a peasant.” Who needs all those heavy sauces, anyway? And besides, Americans flail around the dance floor like untamed puppies. It’s our God given right!
Still, the fear of looking like a peasant grated on my ego, and fueled my desire. Much to my surprise and delight I soon discovered that the lively music and Latin movement lifted my spirits so high, I felt happy for days afterward — which brought joy into every area of my life, and work.
Glenn Carlson says
February 4, 2015 at 8:32 PMLove your post Nancy! Keep it rockin”!