“Do you like breezing?” One of my bright faced students asked sweetly.
“What does that mean?” I asked suddenly unsure of myself.
“Going to the beach and hanging out”
“Oh,” I laughed, “yes, I love breezing!”
This was one of my first conversations with a student of mine in Barbados (let’s call her Lil K). I was already mesmerized by her sweetness and curiosity. This particular student became very dear to me. Her family is made of the greatest stuff. Beautiful hearts full of joy and self-sacrifice.
Lil K was a fantastic improviser – she possessed in her small frame all the gusto of a seasoned performer. One day after class when only a few lingering students remained, we played energetic music and took turns leading a dance. Lil K came up after some time and said “play a sad song.” A little confused, I followed her lead and put on the first sad song that came to mind: Adele’s “Someone like you.” She began to lead the group in an impassioned stomping. She would pull her hands close towards an emotional face and then press them away as if holding up a collapsing cage. Before this dance we had switched leaders every few 8 counts, but her movement, full of conviction, carried us through every mournful note Adele sang. The studio owner and I had to be careful while following her shaking hand and strong stances not to laugh. Her heartfelt dance was one of the cutest most admirable things I had ever seen. Swallowing our laughter we continued pressing our hands through the melancholy moods around us until we melted to a final surrendered pose.
While in Barbados, I learned many lessons from my students, not least that life is a gift and we can celebrate every bit of it – even the sad parts. Lil K’s sweet sorrow was worth celebrating with a good cleansing dance.
What better use of a dance studio is there than to share the depths of yourself without a word?
I miss my sweet girl and cannot wait to see her again – her fearlessness and joy are attributes to which I aspire.
Live fully my friends and keep breezing.
