Some days it feels like there is so much in the world that could/should change and I start to wonder why I’m even teaching ballet. Does it really matter if someone can point their foot? Or pirouette? These are not skills that will build a better future. But there is so much more happening in the ballet class than just the dancing.
Ballet teachers
provide a joyful, safe place for students to thrive
teach grit
model resiliency
help children learn to interact with peers
teach responsibility
love their students
support and celebrate their students’ accomplishments in the studio and beyond
teach students that mistakes are part of growth, not signs of weakness or failure
help dancers reach their goals
hold students to high expectations and help them reach that level of success
teach people how amazing their body is and to appreciate its potential
encourage creativity and individual expression
value each student, regardless of whether or not they pursue dance professionally
These things matter and these lessons last much longer than any dance career.
When I retire, no one will think, “Wow, she made a real impact on air quality in our community,” or, “Healthy food is so much more accessible and affordable because of her dedication.” I (probably) won't have made a huge difference to strangers. But there will be adults out there making a difference who learned some of their values and strengths in my ballet class and that's pretty amazing.
It's not always about pointing feet. It's about pointing out to people that they have potential.
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