Dinner with Richard, Cathy, Joao, & Gary at one of Carol & Alan's Wine & Dine Evenings.One of my many wonderful & delightful friends Cathy is part of the story of my dancing quest.
We were at a party of Achim's helping him celebrate his birthday. As usual there was plenty of bopping & dancing which was great ..... BUT no partner dancing whatsoever. Cathy - like me - enjoys partner dancing aswell but sadly neither of us had a clue as to how to lead. So the results despite the help of excellent local vinho were not that effective. A thought did cross my mind - "I wish I could lead" but it was rapidly dismissed by - "Not a hope in Hell Yolande. You'll never learn how to do that". My multi tasking skill gene definitely went to someone else!!
I have always admired men who danced as there is so much they need to take on board & I really respected them for doing so. "I'm so glad I'm a woman & do not have the responsibility of leading". Well, that thought has come back to bite me on the bum!! Because my dancing quest not only requires me to be aware of the follower's skill requirements but also .... I have to learn about leading & a whole host of other things. YIKES! Good job I like a challenge & aren't afraid of brain ache.
Previously when dancing it was a case of learning the art of following which personally I think is sooooooo easy compared to what the leaders need to learn to do. I never in a million years thought that I would be able to do what I am doing today after only 2 months. The sense of achievement is incredible & the great thing is it can only get better. More about that another post.
My current challenge is about becoming a 'clear' lead which is gentle but effective as leading has nothing whatsover to do with strength. Also, I need to keep saying the Mantra's .......
'There are never any mistakes - just variations'
'Smile & keep going no matter what'
'Whatever happens never look surprised - you've probably invented another move'
and one of my latest favourites that I heard at Sue Freeman's Lindy Hop class yesterday .......
'Hold your head up high & be PROUD of your mistakes'. Great quote from a great lady - it is always such a pleasure to go to her classes (excellent laughter therapy!) I just LOVE that quote & think I'll become an expert at taking it on board!!!!!
** these first posts up to Jan 2011 are being written as I'm actually in the throws of all this taking off like a rocket!! So I'm writing 'catch up' to the present scenario! Hope that makes sense?
