The Dance Dad podcast, hosted by John Corella, recently featured Reverend Dawn Check (also known as Minister Dawn from Dance Moms) to unpack the complex emotions and societal implications following a significant election. In a deeply insightful episode, they addressed the palpable fear, anger, and exhaustion felt by many, particularly in marginalized communities. This discussion offered not just a space for acknowledging these difficult feelings but also a path forward, drawing wisdom from unexpected places, including biblical teachings.
Reverend Dawn and John openly discussed the widespread anxieties concerning the future, especially for women, people of color, and the LGBTQIA+ community. They didn’t shy away from the tough questions, asking where they, as individuals and as a society, might have fallen short leading up to the election outcome. This introspective approach set the stage for a conversation that was as much about personal responsibility as it was about collective healing.
Drawing upon religious texts, the discussion explored how figures like Jesus, Moses, and Esther faced adversity with strength, forgiveness, and unwavering faith. These biblical stories served as powerful metaphors for the current moment, offering timeless lessons on perseverance in the face of fear. The conversation highlighted the importance of distinguishing between genuine faith and its misuse, particularly calling out the hypocrisy of groups who twist religious teachings for self-serving and divisive purposes. Reverend Dawn pointed out how some interpret scripture to justify wealth and power, ignoring core tenets of compassion and equity.
A crucial point of reflection was the role of anger and how to process it constructively. Reverend Dawn admitted to attending church while angry, normalizing this emotion as a valid response to challenging times. Both hosts emphasized the importance of introspection rather than outward blame, urging listeners to consider “Where was God in all of this?” as a prompt for self-examination and collective action. This inward focus encourages a deeper understanding of personal roles and responsibilities in shaping societal outcomes.
The conversation also tackled the delicate issue of faith being weaponized. John Corella and Reverend Dawn lamented how the misuse of religious rhetoric has alienated many, pushing them away from faith altogether. Despite this, they advocated for reclaiming the positive and inclusive aspects of spirituality, suggesting that principles like those found in the Beatitudes offer a more profound guide for living than rigid legalistic interpretations of faith.
In a particularly poignant moment, John shared personal experiences of cutting people out of his life in anger, realizing later that this avoidance hindered his own emotional processing. He advocated for facing internal turmoil rather than resorting to detachment, cautioning against making permanent decisions fueled by temporary rage. This vulnerability added a layer of authenticity to the discussion, making it relatable and deeply human.
Ultimately, the episode circled back to the example of Jesus, highlighting his strength and peace even in the face of extreme suffering. The act of forgiveness, even towards those causing harm, was presented not as weakness but as a profound source of power. This perspective offers a powerful message of resilience and hope, even in seemingly dark times.
This episode of the Dance Dad podcast serves as a valuable resource for anyone grappling with post-election anxieties and seeking constructive pathways forward. By blending personal reflection, religious insights, and open dialogue, John Corella and Reverend Dawn created a space for understanding, healing, and empowered action. The conversation encourages listeners to engage with their emotions, learn from both religious and personal narratives, and actively shape a more positive future.
