Gold in 3 or 4 Minutes!
08.18.09

Having been a part of the sports world for so long, one of the cool things I found in dance and specifically in West Coast Swing was the opportunity to really get to know and dance with some of the best in the world. Most of us are never going to get a chance to run for a TD against the Colts, never a chance to face down Randy Johnson and hit a home run and not likely to go one on one with LeBron James. Week in and week out though, dancers all across the world get chances to dance with the superstars in our chosen sport.
 
It sets this sport apart from so many others. Some may find that idea to be intimidating, but the grace and graciousness of our friends at the top of dance is extraordinary and should be commended whenever possible. There are a few who have drawn away from the masses and give little time to their fans, but by and large, when Beth and I are at the many events we attend, the Michael Kielbasa's, Jordan's, Tatiana's and Jeannie Tucker's are busy making many people's nights by giving them something very special and very simple...a dance.
 
Simple is key here. 3 to 4 minutes of your time can make such a difference in so many ways. You do not have to be a superstar. In fact, many times when I talk to our stars in dance, they appreciate you and remember where they came from...a new dancer looking to find their way in a strange new world. That little tweak that they got from someone may have made all the difference to their choice to pursue dance or move on to some other activity. That little bit that was given to them is now passed on and multiplied many times over. Who could really ask for a better way to make a difference in this world?
 
When I was a newer dancer, I was struggling through another evening in Goldcoast, trying to figure out how to make the transition from solid football player to a stumbling, bumbling dancer. That evening a young lady across the way was wowing everyone with a fine exhibition of dance. She came over to me while I was sitting down and asked me to dance...boy, was she asking for trouble!
 
3 minutes later, I knew I was hooked and although I am sure in some people'e eyes I was still stumbling around, it sure did not feel that way. As far as I was concerned, I was a dancer and she made me feel like one for that song. She was no pro, but just another one of us, a little further along in the journey. The thing is, I will never forget that dance and what she gave me for a lifetime in that 3 minute effort on her part.
 
I've repeated this many times, but it will always be an important message and you will hear it many more times. Don't forget where you came from! Take a hint from the some of the best in the business and give back to the community, especially to the new faces you see. Your attitude and actions may mean the difference to so many others around you. Be respectful, be courteous and enjoy the moment with everyone. You never know how soon your days will be done and the best you can be is that person that made a difference to someone who looks up to those like you. You've started the journey to become a dancer. Bring some friends and soon-to-be friends with you!