July 3, 2023
This season of gratitude always makes me reflect on how thankful I am to live a life immersed in dance.
Dance is a blessing that enriches my daily life. Whether I’m at my studio surrounded by our dance families, guiding fellow studio owners, speaking at business events, or teaching on the convention circuit, dance is always present. Just last weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to perform with the faculty of Dance Revolution – a truly special treat, especially considering I was on crutches only 6 months prior.
But recently, I experienced a new depth of gratitude for dance: the pure JOY of witnessing adults embrace dance for the first time. This wave of emotion washed over me after seeing a social media post I was tagged in a couple of weeks ago.
The post was from one of our adult ballet students, sharing her experience after her very first ballet class. She wrote about a childhood dream finally realized.
Tears welled up in my eyes. So many happy tears.
Here’s a glimpse of her heartfelt words:
“Yes, at 46 years old, one of the dreams I’ve cherished since childhood came true. I stood in a room, in first position with pointed toes, surrounded by a flurry of French terms I couldn’t quite master. As I gazed at my reflection, the same reflection I often struggle to accept, I didn’t see the wrinkles or the multiple chins. I didn’t see the bumps and bulges, or the extra weight I carry. I saw the dancer within, adorned in the beautiful pink ballet slippers gifted to me by a dear friend for this very moment.”
“And I realized I was “doing it!” I wasn’t just at home dreaming about it. I was actively participating. It wasn’t perfect, it was challenging, and my body resisted at times, but I persisted, and I absolutely loved it, and I crave more.”
WOW.
Reading this post unleashed a torrent of emotions within me. The gratitude I felt for this courageous woman, and for her transformative experience, was overwhelming.
THIS is the very essence of why I dedicate my life to dance.
Dance With Everybody in mind, because dance is for every BODY. It transcends age, size, and background. For so many, dancing is a dream come true, regardless of where they are on their dance journey.
I’ve always felt a profound calling to do the work I do. Divine grace has allowed me to passionately pursue my path in the dance industry, and for His guidance, I am eternally thankful. What an incredible privilege it is to live this life!
When I was a young dancer, the concept of a “calling” was still vague to me. Yet, I instinctively knew there was something deeply special about the way dance resonated within my soul. I couldn’t have foreseen that my calling would lead to building national and international dance programs. I couldn’t have imagined that my calling would involve nurturing a community of like-minded studio owners. I certainly didn’t realize that my calling would be about creating a dance community for my community.
It is profoundly humbling to witness others’ dance dreams taking flight at MDU. Dance truly possesses the power to change lives.
The word “gratitude” feels inadequate to express my appreciation for the beautiful ballet student who tagged me in that post. So this public acknowledgment will have to suffice. Thank you for sharing your journey and for daring to chase your dreams. You are a true inspiration!
And to anyone reading this who is contemplating trying a dance class for the first time: Please, take the leap! Don’t hesitate any longer.
Dance is for everyone.
Come exactly as you are.
Embrace the sensation. Savor the movement.
You will always find a warm welcome at my studio.
Love, Misty
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