Dear Irish Step Dancing,
On my first twenty-five minute ride to the studio, my seven-year-old self never could have imagined all that you would give to me. I was greeted by my dance teacher Lisa, who would later become like a second mother to me; encouraging me to learn more about you. Since the age of two I had taken all different kinds of dance classes, but because of my Irish heritage and the movie, “The Luck of the Irish” (embarrassing now to say, I know) I decided that you were my one true love. I knew by the age of seven that I loved to dance, but I couldn’t find passion in anything, but Irish Dance.
Over the years, you were the one thing I could always rely on. In saying this, you never came easy to me. I had to go the extra mile, or in terms of Irish dancing, the extra three steps. Okay let's be honest…in my case I had to repeat simple beats and rhythm’s about one hundred times before getting it right. Most people would have given up, but I strived to be better even if it meant a few injuries along the way.
Over the years, you gave me a second family, my dance family.The friendships I have made along the way are one thing that I cherish the most. When I was just starting out the older girls were always my role models and as the years went on I became one (I hope I was a decent one). Also, you can never forget about the dance moms and dads, as a got older I grew bonds with them as well.
Over the years, you made me appreciate my parents and all that they have done for me. From going to Feis’ (competitions) every weekend when they could have been doing things they would have much rather done. Or, flying around the world to see me compete and of course paying for it all. You were very expensive, new Gavin dresses every year, shoes, wigs and traveling expenses were needed and my parents supplied the money even if it meant them sacrificing things.
Over the years, you taught me dedication and hard work. This is something I will carry with me forever. Practice makes perfect, but nothing is ever truly perfect so keep striving for new goals, that is exactly what I did.
In my last competing years, I knew that soon we would say our goodbyes. Senior year of high school came and I started to not make as much time for you. I figured that I would only be a senior once, but what I didn’t realize was that I was letting go of something so great. I’m sorry for that. Now that I’m in college I realize how I should have never let my dancing dreams dwindle, just because I was growing up.
In years to come, you will always be apart of me…once a dancer, always a dancer. You have helped me become the person that I am and I cannot thank you enough for that. I am grateful for the time that we shared together and would not trade it for anything.
Love Always,
A Retired Irish Dancer
