'Everybody's talkin' all this stuff about me, why won't they just let me live.' The poignant lyrics and vibrant keyboard tones of pre-crazy Bobby Brown broke our eardrums as it blasted out on to the dance floor. I was sitting at a table playing with my camera.
I've discovered that people who are not very good at other things (dancing and other sports especially) become very good at observing. This was the case for me Friday night, when I attended an event with a dance afterwards with my parents. Dancing is far from my strong suit, so I sat quietly and observed the goings on.
As Bobby Brown began to play, a woman, approximately 30 years old, but who didn't look a day over 28, was out on the floor. Her ponytail was flopping against her back as she moved and grooved. She had already been dancing for at least 20 minutes. It was truly a feat, especially since she was in high-heeled boots. But what was more impressive was the fact that for a majority of the 20 minutes, she was the only one on the dance floor. That solo-dancing queen taught me a pretty big lesson that evening.
Yes, this woman was out by herself, dancing like no one was around. Dancing with confidence is pretty admirable when you are in a crowd, but to do it alone is something most of us wouldn't even imagine. But she did it, and she did it for minutes on end. Eventually, a few more couples and gutsy individuals came to join her on the floor including my parents. (Have you ever seen your parents try and drop it like it's hot to 'Goodies'? I don't wish it on anyone) But when they got tired and took a seat or got a drink, she stayed, wiping sweat from her brow and tightening her boots.
As if Bobby Brown were advising her , she ruled that dance floor. It was her prerogative and she didn't need permission to make her own decisions. Men were trying to be gentleman and dance with her so she wouldn't have to be alone. The men all left after a song or two, telling the other people at their tables that she was fine alone. She told all of the would-be partners that she would be dancing at home, so why not do it at a party.
The display of self-assurance played out like a motivational speaker's wet dream. It completely trumped every example one of those horrible posters with pictures of eagles and small children that are designed to inspire people. They are covered in lines like, 'Speak your mind even if you're speaking alone.' It all sounds wonderful on 27 by 4 inch glossy paper. But how often do we see this ideal realized?
This is what made that woman at the dance so special. She was out on her own, speaking her mind, or rather shaking her behind. She was a simple reminder that all of us need to take a few risks sometimes, or at least not knock the people who do.
So get out there and dance! Or if that is just not your thing, try to be a good observer and remember not to give anyone crap who is out there putting it all on the line. And to you and yours, have a safe and happy break full of long naps, game shows and lots and lots of Bobby Brown.
