dancing disappointments

I had spent everyday that past week with my eyes glued to the front window, searching for the mailman. When he finally arrived, I ran out to my mailbox to skim through the mess of magazines and bills to find my letter from the dance studio. My heart sank. I could not believe that I was placed on a team I did not audition for. Additionally, All my friends had been placed on the Ensemble Team. I didn’t understand why or how all my friends were chosen and not me! I then made a choice to take the high road instead of feeling sorry for myself.

During my freshman year, I moved to a different dance studio along with several other friends. We all enrolled in many of the same classes and we were enjoying the new challenges together. Along with my rigorous dance schedule, I was preparing for Company auditions. My instructors encouraged me to try out for the Ensemble Dance Team. I was so excited to have the chance to be on that team, as it was known to be a high skill level team and I had been admiring the beautiful dancers who performed within that company. Over the next few months, my friends and I worked extra hard to catch our teacher’s eye. Shortly before the auditions, I was assured by my teachers as well as the director of the studio that they were looking forward to placing me on the Ensemble Team. Going into auditions with my friends, I was excited and confident in myself. Afterwards, I felt that I had nailed the dance combination.

But when the letter I had so anxiously been anticipating finally arrived, I was certainly not as jubilant as I thought I would be. I needed to get ready for my first rehearsal and to push through the disappointment. I walked into my first practice sort of apprehensive as I knew none of the girls. The choreographer put together some fun and challenging combinations. Our dances started focusing on each of the dancer’s strengths. The girls on the team became fast

friends of mine. I still missed my friends that were on Ensemble, but overall, I could not have asked for a better experience.

When I first heard the news of my Company placement, I was shocked. It seemed to be one of my greatest disappointments yet. I decided to make the best of a bad situation, and

it worked in my favor. I was on a team that had fabulous girls, great instruction and amazing performing opportunities. Also, I made a close group of friends who I cherish and love. I believe, with the right attitude, devastating disappointments can turn into unexpected opportunities.