Let’s Dance
By: Kevin Barnard, columnist
By: Kevin Barnard
As my good friend John Michael Montgomery once stated so eloquently: “Life’s a dance…you learn as you go.” And that, my friends, is the truth.
I didn’t get to grow up in the days of sock hops, but I’ve been to a few places to watch people dance and here’s what I’ve learned: some got it... some don’t, but they are out there trying to figure it out… while others sit against the wall, not sure as to what their next steps should be.
I have experienced the same thing while walking this grief journey. Some people seem to find their rhythm and just roll on through life. I’m not saying it’s easy for them, for everyone struggles. It just seems like the transition is smooth, like socks on an old gym floor.
Others… well… they’re still figuring it out. Sometimes it appears they are in rhythm with life, but their moves aren’t that smooth. They don’t get it right all the time, but they’re at least trying to dance to their new rhythm, while slipping and sliding around the dance floor.
While some… you’re still on the outside looking in. Grief has stopped you in your tracks… making you fearful of getting on the floor. Perhaps you’ve never danced alone, and you can’t see the point of getting out on the floor without your partner. Very understandable. Some just think you’ll never be able to dance again… another emotion that’s easy to identify with.
I guess all I’m saying is this: we are all dancing in some form or fashion. Some are waltzing in perfect harmony with the music. Others are flailing our arms, causing a scene, when in fact we are just trying to figure it all out. While others are just on the side, swaying back and forth thinking, “I love this song… but not sure how to dance again.” You want to live full… but are struggling to find the rhythm once again.
John also said: “Sometimes you lead. Sometimes you follow. Don’t worry about what you don’t know. Life’s a dance, you learn as you go.” We are all learning. We are all sorting this life thing out. May you find a rhythm again... and begin dancing your way… to healing out loud.