Civil Rights Day

I was talking with some friends over the weekend about Civil Rights Day today, and what our plans were for the national holiday. I carelessly made some statement about how I was so glad for the Civil Rights Movement; even though it didn't really affect my life, at least I got a holiday out of it. One of my friends called me out on that statement, saying that the Civil Rights Movement affected all of our lives, more than we care to realize.

I pondered about this... I had thought that my growing up in the west, being white, and from a middle-class family would all add up to a pretty similar life for me, even if the Civil Rights Movement had never occurred.

What a narrow way of thinking.

My eyes were opened to all the ways that my life and perspective has been affected by the Civil Rights Movement. This realization came just today from viewing a beautiful piece of choreography entitled "Lament" by Dwight Rhoden, danced by Desmond Richardson. Both of these men are amazingly talented artists who have made lasting impressions on the dance world, and both of them are black. I thought, who knows if I would be enjoying this incredible piece of work if the Civil Rights Movement had not taken place. I continued thinking, what other beautiful areas of the world would have been left wanting if equal opportunity and rights were not awarded to people of all races, cultures and colors? I didn't like that thought. Here you can see why:



Desmond Richardson is one of my favorite dancers. His technique is impeccable, his physique flawless, and his performance quality--simply breath-taking. I could sit and watch him all day. I'm so glad to know that everyone has the equal right and opportunity to create, invent, and express. The Civil Rights Movement helped to bring that result about, and I'm so grateful. Happy Civil Rights Day.

Lessons Learned in 'Eleven

2011: It was a good year. I received my college degree, traveled to Europe, got a solid job that I love, directed an entire show on my own, made some incredible new friends, and solidified friendships that I know I'll cherish forever. Plus, I learned some very valuable lessons, including (but not limited to) the following:

1) Spending quality time with a ukulele is always a good idea.
2) STYX is one of the greatest bands of all time. I know this simply by listening to their sweet tunage, and going to one of their concerts. Those men are quite wrinkled, but they love their music and rock so hard.
3) Throwing a pot on the wheel is one of the most rewarding activities--you are able to clear your mind while being productive and creating something useful. Love.
4) When you're in the market for a used car, always get it checked by a mechanic before making the purchase.
5) Valley Fever is not a joke! You can really catch it, and it will keep you down for weeks on end.
6) What I accomplish and achieve in my life is up to me. I am the only person who can hold me back.
7) Betsy Johnson earrings are a treasure.
8) We can learn a lesson from everyone that we meet. All we have to do is open our eyes and see what they have to offer. 
9) A budget is a must-have. I do not live paycheck to paycheck, I give every dollar a job, I roll with the financial punches, and I save for a rainy day. I feel in complete control. (Thanks, YNAB!)
10) You must let the people around you know that you care... it will add value to their lives as well as yours.
11) Pina Bausch speaks the truth: "Dance, dance--otherwise we are lost."

When it comes to 2011, there is no room for complaints.

And I have this feeling... a remarkable warmth inside my soul, that 2012 will be even better. I am eager to embark on all the adventures this year holds in its hand. If only I could peel open the fingers, get a glimpse of what lies in its palm, and see what is coming my way. Who will I meet? Where will we go and what will we do? What new lessons will I learn? Only time will tell the story. But I know, it's going to be a good one.