Thank you, dance. Thank you for giving me a place to call home every day after school until the late hours of the night. Thank you for letting me live inside of you, whether I’m practicing, teaching classes, or just hanging out after a long and stressful day.

Thank you dance, for making me feel a certain high that’s hard to put into words. To just close my eyes and feel the music rush through my veins is something most people never experience. Whether it’s anger, jealousy, or sorrow, I never fail to release my emotions through the art I create with you. Thank you dance, for getting me through the hardest times in my life. I’m so lucky to have you as such a positive and healthy outlet for my overwhelming emotions.

Thank you dance, for opening my eyes to so many things besides how to nail a perfect turn or how to smile on stage. You have brought out a certain passion in me; something I’ve never truly experienced before. I view you as some omnipotent God who’s a part of everything I do. Thank you for teaching me to have an appreciation for things more valuable than the latest cell phone or expensive clothing.

Thank you dance, for teaching me a certain sense of responsibility. Teaching you to younger dancers is one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had. To see the joy on a little girl’s face after performing her first recital is an indescribable feeling.

Thank you dance, for being my home. Spending countless hours there every day for the past ten years is something I will never forget. I grew up with you, amongst people who love and appreciate me for everything I do. Whether it’s practicing, laughing, or pouring my heart out after a long day, I value the studio in more ways than one could ever imagine. I don’t remember a day where I’ve been upset with you. You’re my safe haven. I have certainly left my mark on the studio, as the studio has certainly left its mark on me.

Most importantly, thank you dance, for teaching me to be myself. When one looks at me, many things may run through their mind; but I am sure none of them are ‘dancer.’ Through you, I’ve learned that I don’t have to have the perfect body in order to do what I love. You showed me how to let go of all my insecurities and to let down my guard in order to let out my rawest emotions as I perform. You have turned me from a shy and timid overweight girl into one who is carefree about everything I do, on the stage and off.

Thinking about how I will never get the past fifteen years at the studio back ever again has me in tears. However, I have the security of knowing that wherever life takes me, I will forever have you, the studio, and all your valuable lessons in my heart. I don’t know where the time went, but I truly miss each and every moment with you. Wherever I venture off to in my near future, I know you will always be waiting for my return with open arms. I don’t really know what’s coming next, but at least I know that I will always be dance.