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Beginner’s Eulogy

By Alejandra Narvaez

Disclaimer: I’ve barely begun to qualify as someone who knows anything about ballroom. And I call myself a dancer? Psht. I’ve only been dancing for 21 months out of my nearly 21 years alive, so what do I know? Nothing, absolutely nada. Yet in my time I’ve learned how not to hurt my knees, how to attempt ideal posture, how not to get trampled (kind of), and most importantly, that I know I’ve found a passion that has blossomed into my biggest love, something no one can take away.

It's difficult to establish when you've finally surpassed "beginner" status. Maybe it can be facebook official after you learn the hustle line dance. Traditionally, a couple must do well (i.e be contenders in the final rounds) in the level in which they compete. Do this consistently and you had best move up or others will roll their eyes at you and question your morals.

Typically certain qualifications are expected of you as you progress to higher, more experienced levels. The level you are in should challenge you to be precise yet creative, follow syllabi guidelines but still be exciting.

It is a milestone when someone has tamed their fear of dancing in public, because then their love of dance outweighs the questioning glances of others as they’re too busy to notice with dance on the brain. In a sense, a person in these shoes cannot contain their love of dance and rhythm.

Maybe this is just my declaration to the world that I love to dance, and to serve as a gracious reminder that I am an undeserving pipsqueak. No matter how many people I talk to about ballroom or how many dancers I watch develop their skill, I will forever find joy in having begun and choosing to stick with this art. Even if we don’t last forever, ballroom dance will always live through us and those we share it with. I think you know when you’re over being a beginner when you know this: You’ll never. Stop. Dancing.

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