Embracing Humility: Lessons Learned on the Dance Floor

I've always been one to aim high. Ambition courses through my veins, propelling me forward in pursuit of my goals. Yet, in the midst of this drive, there lies a tendency to leap before looking, to rush towards the finish line even if the journey isn't quite ready to be traversed.

Today, amidst the vibrant rhythms of Intermediate Salsa, I was gently reminded of this tendency by my instructor, the seasoned and patient Ervin Kormos. With a kind smile, he guided me back to reality, gently suggesting that my eagerness to lead may have outpaced my readiness.

Initially, I felt a pang of disappointment. But as Ervin continued to lead the class, his wisdom became evident. I had to acknowledge the truth: I was the weakest link, not yet ready to take on the role of leader. And that realization, though humbling, was invaluable.

Despite the bustling class, Ervin made it a point to provide me with ample opportunities to practice leading, patiently correcting my missteps along the way. And oh, were there missteps. In theory, I knew the steps like the back of my hand. But when it came time to execute them, a glaring disconnect emerged between what I knew and what I could do.

It was a humbling reckoning. I had to admit to myself that proficiency in one aspect of dance didn't automatically translate to mastery in another. Despite my prowess as a follower, leading was an entirely different ballgame—one that required starting from square one.

And so, with humility as my guide, I embraced the reality of my situation. I couldn't rush this journey. My footwork, my timing, my technique—all required diligent practice and patient refinement.

As I reflected on this experience, I couldn't help but draw parallels to the world outside the dance studio. How often do we convince ourselves that we're ready for a leadership role, only to realize too late that we've bitten off more than we can chew? It's a hard truth to swallow, but one that's essential for growth.

Ervin's guidance served as a poignant reminder: sometimes, the path to success begins at the very bottom, where humility and perseverance pave the way forward. Rushing ahead may seem enticing, but it's a shortcut fraught with the risk of frustration and failure.

So, here's to embracing humility, to starting from scratch, and to patiently honing our skills one step at a time. And to Ervin of Saskatoon Salsa, thank you for your unwavering support, even when it felt like a gentle nudge back to reality. Your wisdom ensured that everyone in the class could not only succeed but also have a blast along the way.

Jacqueline