A certain gladness comes with knowing that I have made it through audition season. This being my first, I worried a lot; I was nervous— no doubt about that. And I could stand not to hear one more note of Paquita ever again. But I made it–we all did!–and I’m so thankful for the dancers who have come together to launch Faith Youth Ballet and Firebird.
Over the course of the summer, I contemplatively, with total honesty, filled out my very first audition form. I gathered up my pictures. Most rigorous of all, Miss Sara and I ripped Paquita apart like there was no tomorrow. After a few private lessons, it was up to me to plant myself in the Ranch House (the neighborhood rec center) and “be sassy”, as my instructor termed it.
That variation had me dizzy with exhaustion by the end of the month, but I was proud of the way it looked. I was confident in my performance. I knew that, with the God of the universe cheering me on, I could sell it.
But God is no respecter of persons. Each and every girl and boy at the audition site was an incredible dancer, and Jesus loves them all alike. For the first time since August began, the stress of it all melted from my shoulders; I was just happy to be a part of something so beautiful. My fellow dancer-people are truly inspiring.
The audition–and again, I never lie–was tough. Coming in on a month of self-taught ballet lessons, I guess that plies WOULD be harder than usual. And yet, I enjoyed myself. I was smiling, or looking pleasant at least. I was confident in my movements, head to toe. And for the first time ever, Paquita seemed effortless.
I spent the last week on vacation, awaiting results, but the pressure was off, and Wisconsin looked that much brighter. It’s so good to be alive.
On Monday night, the exciting news came. I think I forgot how to breathe.
For the rest of our trip, I was the Firefly (Thanks, Dan.), the Firefox (and again), the Fire Chicken (Wow, Dad. I love you, too.) and the Fiery Pigeon (So, Kaden… a rat with wings, huh…?). And all of those silly pet names made me smile even wider because they reminded me of a truth of which I still haven’t wrapped my head completely around…
Indeed you are the Firebird, and we are so very proud of you. Your hard work and dedication paid off. You are an inspiration. This is going to be an amazing adventure. "For I know the plans I have for you…" Jeremiah 29:11.
By the way, we love you!
Thank you so much for your support, Mom, and for driving me to my private lessons and coming with me to the Ranch House. I love you! <3
Oh my goodness, what a way to start your 15th year! Will you be dancing at a new studio now? So happy for you dear. <3
Thank you so much, Caroline! <3 The best part of all: I get to rehearse from the home studio (Going on year four…. When did that even happen?!). I miss you, darling.
My pleasure! <3
Beautiful Aquinnah … you continue to bless us with the elegance of your dance, the beauty of your heart, & now, the eloquence with which you have shared your experience. You are truly a Firebird … our favorite one. We feel honored to know you & to have had the pleasure of watching you blossom. We love you very much. Congratulations!
Thank you both SO much! I am so blessed by the two of you. I will never forget the day that you gave us all of those books. The People of Pineapple Place is, to this day, one of my very favorites. Love you and miss you both! Many thanks for everything!