Saturday, December 12, 2009

The gift of dance


As I reflect on this past year, I have much to be thankful for. Just this season I celebrate my son's milestone birthday; 33 friends and family all gathered for Thanksgiving bringing my dad to tears; I'm publishing my 2nd book DANCING MY PRAYERS and I'm still here, using my gift of dance. Last year this time I could not lift my right arm due to a rotator cuff injury. As I sulked and moaned about not being able to dance full out I was reminded that God uses even the least of us. As I tried to dance my prayers in the morning, I was frustrated when I couldn't even raise my arms to praise Him. Lying prostrate was so painful I could not bear it. My students suffered as I could not demonstrate simple por de bras. I spent much time getting medical attention when what I needed most was rest. A year later I can now lift my arms again. It is still uncomfortable but I'm thankful I can once again use my limbs. This past year has made me truly appreciate the gift of dance. Its amazing how you can appreciate something so much more when you don't have it. We all have the ability to dance and we should use it everyday. Whether is exercise, cha cha slide, salsa or African dance - this year give yourself the gift of dance. Use your gift to celebrate you, this season and the fact that we are all still here. I dance because....

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

So I am about to see you in a couple hours but I needed to read something uplifting and knew you'd have just the thing. This was exactly what I needed. I was doing my own personal dance relfection this week. Realizing that for the past 2 years, this time of year I have been preparing or recovering from surgery (unable to dance). This year, my health is no better, but I am dancing more than usual. I adored this entry. Remembering the dancers we were in December 2008 and being grateful for the dancers we are in December 2009. I love you and I am grateful for the dancer you are in my life. Can't wait to see you. Maybe we'll dance a bit tonight. (a little African for Kwanzaa :) )