I have been fortunate to be able to participate in Cubby Bear Chicago’s $5,000 salsa open every year but this year it had been my intention to let it pass. I didn’t have a partner, didn’t have time, didn’t want to put myself out there again.
Two weeks before the contest I found out one of the dancers I had grown up with had passed away. We had gone to high school together. We lived in the same neighborhood. We even went to the same college until he transferred to a different university. We shared the same best friend for a number of years. We chose the same profession deciding to channel our passion into dance. His talent was amazing. He was brilliant. Then he was gone.
I revered him as a dancer, respected him as a person, and admired him as a driven entrepreneur. Dancers are entrepreneurs in that there is no set road map. Ultimately you carve out your own road. He created an expressway, inspiring so many people. In his performance and in his classes for youth, he gave freely of his talent and experience.
People say that you should live each day as if it is your last. It takes courage and boldness to pursue your dreams. To live each day in the moment is strenuous. It is tough.
Enjoy your life and find the happiness within it. Find your passion, whether it is helping others, writing poetry, or having tea with friends. Appreciate the opportunity to be alive. So love fiercely, be happy, and be excited because we are each fortunate to be living.
In the end I decided to join the contest. It wasn’t about trying to win. It was about being bold enough to live. I have decided to be daring. Because I am blessed to be alive and able to follow my dreams.
Thank you Scott, for your most excellent example on how to live fully.
your old friend,
Denita
