I know.
We're all sick of seeing the cliche "open letter" articles that are constantly surfacing throughout social media. But this one is different. This is an open letter to...my hula hoops.
If you don't hoop dance, this might sound a bit odd. Why is this girl writing a love letter to a child's toy? Well, if you're not a hooper, bear with me. If you are a hooper, you'll relate to this in so many ways.
Pictured: Jackie Gajda
The first time I saw a hoop dancer, I was mesmerized. I thought I could never do something so unique and beautiful. But of course, with some hard work, dedication, and encouragement, I was able to catch on and ultimately fall in love.
My hula hoops have been there through it all. They've been there through the good times, such as vacations, concerts, warm days on the beach, and bored, rainy nights in. But they've also been there through the not so great times.
Pictured: Lisa Phoenix Flow
When my relationship failed, I picked up my hoop. When I failed that test or didn't get that job, I picked up my hoop. When my bank account was at $4 and I didn't know how I was going to pay my rent, I picked up my hoop.
When I thought nothing could make it better, I picked up my hoop and forgot about every shitty thing that happened that day. They've been there for me through things that even my closest friends couldn't help me through.
Pictured: Maggie Brown of JAMhoops Limited
I know this might sound silly. But my hula hoop has shown me that if I work hard at something, I can achieve it. Every time I pick it up to learn something new, it gives me such a feeling of accomplishment when I finally nail that new trick. My hoop has taught me dedication, patience and perseverance.
My hula hoop has done wonders for my confidence, both physically and mentally. I'm not sure where I would be without it, and quite frankly, I'm not sure I want to know. My hoops have given me a passion and a way of expressing myself that I don't know what I would do without.
Pictured: Nikki Marie Pepi
Cover Photo: Jerry Hoops