As a 5-year-old, I gingerly held my mother’s hand and entered Naru Aunty’s living room. That day is unforgettable—it was when I first encountered my lifelong companion and now best friend: Dance. The “dance class” was a small room, barely able to accommodate a few kids. I was apprehensive, not knowing anyone in the class. But it was there that I met Dance, my lifelong friend.
What a Friendship and What a Journey
Over the next few classes, I realized I wasn’t Dance’s only friend, and perhaps not even her favorite. She seemed to have already bonded with others—some pretty, some experienced, and some whom she seemed to favor. Dance appeared dignified, sought after, and spoken about in reverent tones. As a child, I didn’t know what to make of her or how to connect.
At first, I struggled to communicate with Dance. I didn’t know her language, and I wasn’t sure how to bond with her. Slowly, with Naru Aunty’s guidance, I learned to “speak” Dance’s language. Initially, I stuttered, and while some kids spoke fluently with her, I took my time. But we began to communicate. I started looking forward to my Monday and Friday classes, feeling our connection grow. Though I envied those who seemed to master her more quickly, I realized that Dance treated everyone fairly if they spent enough time with her. So, I let go of envy and focused on our bond.
A Growing Friendship
With time, Dance became a personal friend, always there when I chose to be with her. She wasn’t an unconditional friend—she demanded effort, dedication, and hard work. But in return, she gave me strength, challenged me, and became an integral part of my life. She helped me stay centered, taught me to accept my flaws, and encouraged me to persist through setbacks. During my teenage years, Dance allowed me to express myself. She stood by me through homesickness when I lived in a foreign country, introducing me to new friends and helping me form my identity. She taught me to appreciate beauty and grace beyond material things. Dance showed me the essence of love and emotions long before romantic relationships entered my life. Her influence kept me grounded through my corporate career, marriage, motherhood, and even alternative careers. She enriched every role I played—mother, daughter, wife—helping me cope with loss, challenges, and difficult times.
An Unbreakable Bond
Looking back, Dance has undoubtedly been my best friend. This friendship didn’t happen overnight—it took time, patience, and work. It wasn’t enough that I wanted her friendship; I had to earn it. Dance is open to everyone, but how long she stays with you depends on how far you’re willing to go with her. I didn’t become the greatest dancer, but Dance added more dimensions to my life than I ever imagined.
Dance is an open and giving companion. She’s there for anyone who is willing to work at the relationship. Some have made Dance their entire life, while others, like me, have woven her into their life’s journey. Both paths are valid and enriching. I’ve seen exceptional dancers who’ve devoted their entire lives to her, sacrificing much to explore new paradigms in the world of Dance.
A Friend for Life
Then, there are those who have let Dance become a part of their life. She stays with them through different phases, sometimes stepping back when life demands other priorities, but always ready to return. She helps people stay fit, heal emotional wounds, challenge limitations, and feel connected to a community. In essence, she’s a friend who demands dedication but gives back love and strength.
Dance isn’t just about spirituality or divinity, though those elements exist. At its core, Dance is a friend who helps us find the best in ourselves. She helps us stay focused, express emotions constructively, and appreciate beauty—just like a best friend would.
Lessons for Life
It doesn’t matter when you start your friendship with Dance—at 5 or 50—this friendship will enrich your life. I had the privilege of introducing Dance to my daughter, and they hit it off. Very few friendships can span generations, but Dance is one of them. I hope she stays with and loves my daughter as she did with me.
It doesn’t matter which form of Dance you choose. Like any friendship, it’s about connecting with the form that resonates with you. There will be times when life challenges your bond with Dance, and you may want to let go. But Dance is patient. She waits for you to heal, and then quietly re-enters your life when you’re ready to welcome her again.
Dance teaches priceless lessons: persistence, discipline, embracing flaws, and breaking new ground while staying grounded. She helps you face your fears, express your unique self, and handle life’s challenges with dignity and grace. Beyond everything, Dance makes you feel young, beautiful, and wise.
A Timeless Friendship
Dance isn’t just an art form; she’s a friend who enriches all aspects of your life—family, health, career, and self-discovery. Her lessons are invaluable, teaching you to persist, accept your flaws, push your limits, and find your own style and expression.
It doesn’t matter when you start this friendship; Dance will enrich your life. I’ve passed this friendship down to my daughter, and I hope she experiences the same joy and fulfillment. The bond with Dance isn’t just something I chose—it’s a friendship I worked to earn. And for that, she chose to stay with me.
