Great Days, Off Days...

What I'd like to talk about today is something that may not be talked about enough. Depending on your thought processing and perspective, you may take time to acknowledge when you aren't feeling your strongest, to capitalize on it, or you give it so much attention, leaving space for doubt. I am in no way an advocate for succumbing to the pressures and occasional fatigue that comes with the lifestyle of a dance artist, but I am proposing the benefits of acknowledging our "not-so-perfect" days.

     This entire week for me has been filled with ballet classes and rehearsals. There's something about knowing who God called you to be, embracing that and taking that confidence into the very thing He called you to. It changes the game! This entire week has been an amazing one for me because I decided to live in each moment. Y'all know how that is, right? But hear me now. Thursday came around and your girl was feeling the strategic remnants of the hard work I'd put in Monday through Wednesday. (You know, when you were Davalois Fearon on Monday and by Wednesday you'd just taken your first ever dance class!!) I'm not bragging, just trying to paint a picture. We can work really hard for the things we want to achieve and it can be smooth sailing until we meet the inevitable "body feels" that comes with the rigor of dance. So Thursday, yes, let me tell y'all how I had about three "brain farts" and the entire time my balance was not as perched as I would've liked. To top that off, during my solo run thru I did not feel strong internally. You know when you have just finished dancing the kids down (haha. totally not kidding!!!) and all of the energy you needed was there, and you're good?. I was the opposite. From class to rehearsal (dancing full out), I felt that accumulation of "whew I'm tired" and boy did it hit. So here is my point. After my solo the room filled with an inviting silence- the delicate applause of the (rehearsal) audience swarmed in. I thought to myself "Wow! I really didn't feel my strongest and this didn't feel the best but it was effective"

From class that morning to the moments I felt insecure during my solo, I could have given into those pressures and things could've gone significantly left. Instead of succumbing I chose to acknowledge the state my body was in and made the decision to benefit from it. There were times when I would allow the natural progression and workings of dance to defeat me. If I made a mistake, I wasn't competent enough. If I was unable to hold a balance, I would never be able to execute. It took me a little while to grasp this concept: off days can be more productive and fulfilling than the day's we're on but only if we take advantage of them. Don't throw yourself a pity party when you aren't as amazing as you were the day before (This has nothing to do with active consistency [ need that] but has everything to do with owning your moments). Acknowledgment will only be beneficial if you allow yourself to grow from it and be strengthened by it.

The Beginning of a Conversation...

Dance is not about finding the latest "fad" and following it. Searching for a mold to squeeze into, with the hopes of "looking the part" isn't it, either.

     I can remember my younger dance days being guided by a thought process that led me to believe, how I looked outwardly was more important than the essence of why we were being trained. It wasn't until my college years- I realized the art of dance, at its truest and most pure, is an inward exploration that is expressive and progressively developed when you possess undying passion and integrity. Like any other art form, sport, or endeavor, each day will not be spectacular. You won't always feel productive, your very best or "on your leg". There is always something to work towards, to learn. However, an overly-presented outward look will never be able to substitute the passion that develops integrity, that drives excellence at any cost, even when all eyes are not on you.

There is this weird thing that has been happening in the dance world for years but has bubbled over with obsession in the past few months. I remember being a middle school dance student at Parkway Middle School of the Arts and being introduced to the extensive legacy of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and Linda Celeste Sims. Yes! Mrs. Sims was plastered all across my agenda (that rings relevant even today since AAADT is completely timeless). During that time I was exposed to the royalty and reverence of dance. To me, that is what mattered. That drew me closer to dance way before I would dive into its education and core, historical values for myself. One upon a time, to see a dancer was to see kings and queens. To see dance was to see this rarity that you dreamed of and wanted to work for and connect to because in order to do it well; to do it with meaning you had to dig deep. "Not just anyone can dance!". Reminiscing on my early encounters with this passion, I image that statement accompanying my thoughts.

We are in a time where the emphasis of dance art in being placed on how many cool photo shoots we can do, how high we can throw up our legs, the things we can do to appear dedicated to this craft, and  how many times we can spread to social media's masses that we are working so hard to attain meaningless perfection. Don't get me wrong, never-ending lines, the highly anticipated adage developpe, unexpected balancing and perched pirouettes are amazing. In fact, they are the cherry on top but only when our goal is to share rather than to prove and be approved. Superficial dance will never be the art's truth because dance is to be felt and experienced. Dance has the potential to be healing, enlightening, encouraging and should be personable. It just seems that today, most of the goals are to be proficient instead of effective.

There are so many great trailblazers who have gone before us. They left plenty to feast off of. Dance has to be brought back to the art of dance.

IT'S 2019!!!!!

So here's the absolute truth. I stopped uploading blogs for a few weeks because within days notice I had to be on a plane to Atlanta, GA. Knowing that I would not have this computer with me (I try my best to stuff the world, not exceeding 50 lbs, in my suitcases), I made the decision to begin fresh in the new year. I am so grateful and excited to be writing this. We have so much to discuss but to avoid this post reflecting the whirlwind (meaning that in a positive way) of my last 2 months of 2018, we can discuss certain things. Since I began blogging I have tried my best to glue each posts' concept with a theme we can all relate to. This one; you can either Rise or Retreat.

About this days notice to be in ATL that I mentioned earlier; Chiiiile (my SarahJakesRoberts Voice) I took off to do work for Nutcracker Season! This was not your typical Clara and Sugar Plum fairy tale, but a little Brown Sugar and Wild Flower dreamland. Rehearsing, dancing, engaging and living with Ballethnic Dance Company had the potential to be a bit scary but was truly life changing. Hear me out! Have ya'll ever prayed for your dreams to manifest? Without any reservations besides wanting your heart's desires to blossom before your eyes? I believe we have all been there. I talk to God alot about my dreams and I have been blessed with opportunities that would, in my opinion, blow some of your minds but this one had me like "But God, hol' up real quick. This is alot". In the span of three weeks I flew to Atlanta, did Thanksgiving back in South Florida, flew back to Atlanta, learned choreography for Snow, Arabian, some party scene (didn't end up doing that except in rehearsals. lol), and performed before we actually hit the first theatre. Talk about whirlwind!!

This opportunity was the beginning of a long-waited dream so why was I  hesitant and reserved? I dug deep down and just got real with myself and with God. I didn't feel worthy or strong enough to wear such a heavy crown. I love everything about what I do. I love everything about ballet. But everything was happening so fast, and happening even faster was the demand for me to choose my stance. "You can either Rise or Retreat". Mantles re placed before us to thrust, push, strengthen, accelerate and so much more. I felt every single motion. It's like this: you prepare and you practice. Prepare and practice some more. When that opportunity comes knocking, you owe it to God, yourself, and every single person whose life is depending on your gift, to RISE! Never force yourself into believing that you are not capable or deserving. Wherever God places you, He needs you (that'll preach!!! I'm just saying). There are so many reasons why I love Ballethnic and it would literally take all night to write it out but Nena Gilreath, Wavery Lucas, Lydia Mitchell (Abarca) Dale Shields... God sends. Each of these legends snatched my life and my body. My love and hope for the dreams that I've had since high school, were revived and clarified. Just when I thought I had reached my optimum level, BOOM, Waverly taught company class, (lololol. mannn, one day my leg turned out an extra 4 degrees, not lying) but seriously, I suddenly grabbed a hold of this permission I never knew existed. I was able to blossom and focus on me. Not being the one everyone looks up to, is inspired by, is coming to for questions, (all of which I am thankful for and humbled by) but the girl who can clearly see the best image of herself and plow for it in a healthier manner. Next to all of the legends I previously mentioned, is someone who contributed to my growth when it mattered most, company member, Karla Tyson. When the coaches are now in the theatre seats and the directors are swamped in company business, things can change. It's like you're on your own but it cool because you've rehearsed 53638 times. This is different. When I questioned my capability of rising, I watched Karla. When I wanted to be a coke vendor (hilarious) instead of doing Arabian because I allowed my faith to waver, I watched Karla. A woman of many hats, grace, strength, leadership, stealth and beauty; I thank God for being in an environment that nurtured me and that housed someone as brilliant as her.

 Although this was a simplified version of my last two months of 2018, I pray you got the picture. Go after your dreams, walk in humility, be eager to unlearn and grow. You can't develop without being challenged. Even if it seems impossible or too tough, remember what you prayed for, believe you are strengthened for YOUR crown and know that when you see opportunity face to face you have just two options. Retreat or RISE.

ReCharge

Regaining Faith in the mission once you have already given up.

We're just going to hit the ground running on this! Thus far, this topic is my favorite because I am no stranger to weak moments or vulnerable thoughts. I can bet it isn't far fetched to say that everyone has gone through times when dreams become foggy, the motivation for "turning over a new leaf" becomes saturated with peer pressure or your faith feels completely non existent. Great news, you are not alone!

Here is the thing, whenever you get to a place where you have given up, not only are you withholding yourself from reaching and discovering your GOD- GIVEN gifts/talents, but you are literally limiting the work of  an amazing destiny, lessons, and the overall life God has planned for you. One of my favorite scriptures (Hebrews 11:6) says that "..without faith it is impossible to please God...". Hebrews 10:35 tells us "[not to] throw away [our] confident trust in the Lord...patient endurance is all you need...Then you will receive ALL that He has promised" Now y'all, straight out of the gate I had to bring the Lord into this thing because whether you want to believe it or not, JESUS IS the source of all TRUE success and Longevity. The beginning to regaining your faith after you have already given up looks like a life with Jesus. Actually, there is no better time to turn to Him than when you have had enough and are feeling like you're down to nothing. 

 Psalm 125 says "Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion; (A whole mountain though? Yes, sis! Yes bro. A whole mountain. Sturdyyyy) they will not be defeated but will endure forever. Having trust in the Lord is the only way to ReCharge after you've thrown in the towel. To endure forever means that you, your dreams, that business plan, your new found salvation or even your relationships will remain in existence. So, the next time the going gets tough, you may bend but you surely won't break. Naaa, God doesn't get down like that.Will you be challenged, stretched, disciplined and more? Of course, you have to be! It's the only way to get you to the acceptable level so that you can occupy your path and destiny.

Right now, if there is something that you have given up on, I would like you to think on it. Really think about its significance, the affect it had on you before you decided to give up and why you gave up. Now, ask God if that thing is a part of the destiny he has for you.(Sometimes we can do things out of our own will, never consulting God and wonder why it isn't going well) I know this may seem like a long process, and it doesn't all happen overnight but is definitely worth it. When we give up it is because we have allowed doubt and fear to set in but trusting in the Lord will clear all of those foggy areas and most certainly give the boost needed to carry on.

So here is what we're going to do:
Get to know Jesus, Trust Him with our lives and watch our endurance grow, ask God what is His will for our lives and enjoy the recharging of a lifetime.

Tonight I am praying for your ability to fully trust and move into your destiny, never looking back to the old mind of defeat and never again giving up <3

They Helped You To Grow

If you're reading this I am sure you have probably been in all kinds of situations with all sorts of people. My favorite situations have been when I've encountered people who turn out to be the best to hang around, and are truly inspirational (Huge, huge shout out to my DanceTheYard, SideYard peeps! Y'all are a blessing!!). I'm sure you have had those experiences. On the other hand, I have been in those situations where I have had to interact with people who may not have been the most pleasing to my soul, lol! (C'mon y'all, we can be real here). Both groups of people lend themselves to teaching me, even if unbeknownst to them, valuable life lessons. However, the most undesirable situations, have not only taught me the best lessons but have set me on the path to becoming my best self.
Discomfort and undesirable can be painful but it's the only way you can grow.

Think about something for a second: when was the last time you did something well, or something went well for you? How did it make you feel? I'll share a personal thought. In 2014 I had a "sit down" with living legend and historic ballerina, Raven Wilkinson. I could not believe how effortless this came about and that it was actually happening. After that moment I took inventory of how I felt after leaving her. I was a bit more inspired, encouraged, and felt that I had reached the height of my dreams and life experiences. Now, think of a time when you didn't do something so well. Have you been in a situation with a person or people that made you want to pull your hair out? I've got a secret to tell. You only became frustrated, irritated, or felt like you couldn't catch a break in the situation because it was stretching you. You grew from that!

When interacting in tough situations or with "tough" people, it's actually the situation that, not the person that is challenging you. There's a scripture in the bible that tell us that "we [do not] wrestle against flesh and blood (people)... but against powers (spirits)..." That lets me know that I can, with God's help, learn to separate the person from the interaction. Of course there are some people we just cannot afford to be around, for many reasons, but ask God for help to differentiate. The next time you find yourself in an "oh Lord, this is way too much" situation, take inventory of how you feel and ask yourself "What could this be teaching me?". I had many of those thoughts this Summer. Man, it was really tough and some days were better than others but my discomfort grew me tremendously.

As you go throughout this week, whether you experience an inspiring situation with amazing people or a tough situation with people who seem to be less desirable, always remember that while the "feel good" situations keep you going, they aren't the cap for how far you're going in life or how much you will learn. It is in the discomfort that you will gain fresh perspectives, new skills, polished attitudes, endless inspiration and the tools to set you on that path to becoming your best self. Try looking at interactions with people (from either end) from a growth perspective. Favorable is great but the undesirable brings growth!

Looking Back And Moving Forward

This one is dedicated the dreamers and the pushers. For the ones who dream big and at the genesis of the thought of a dazzling future, decides to push, this one is for you. We all have to push at one point or another, right? When that business idea is fresh in our minds, the saving habits for that financial plan begins coming together, or when the reps in the gym or studio finally start to pay off, the vision is crystal clear (best feeling ever!!!) But what happens to the push when all of the work you have put in seems to be in vain? When the things you've been doing seem to no longer render that shiny, new grind mentality, that hunger; what do you do?

Sometimes we want the dream without considering the push that'll be required of us at various times during our journey. I know, when the ball finally begins to roll, we are fearless and resilient; there is nothing that can deter us from working to make our dream a reality. But what happens when it's been months or even years and the manifestation of the business, NFL draft, professional dance career, or book publishing has yet to happen? Look Back (I hope you aren't thinking of Trina lyrics right now. lol). The toughest factor to navigate while fighting for our dreams is time. Funny thing about time is that it can always be on our side if our minds and hearts stay in the right posture. I know days and days have passed but instead of keeping a mental tally board, dig deep and remember how far you've come. Most recently I  had to think about all of the amazing things God has allowed me to overcome, experience, cry through and struggle with. It gave me strength and determination. That is what you need on this journey, STRENGTH and DETERMINATION.

No two people have the same journey. You may not have done the things that I have or that your friends have, but that isn't the point. Take a second right now to reminisce on an opportunity you prayed for and received. Take a second to remember the overwhelming feeling of accomplishment you felt when you finally got into the groove of your 'dream thing". Keep that same energy fam!!!!  Your look back is vital to the forward motion of your dream pursuit because things will get a little tough. However, I have amazing news, as long as you can allow God to strengthen you, and as long as you are willing (gotta be willing) to remain determined, your journey will be much more enjoyable and the lessons you need along the way for growth and development will be able to do its thing .

A few years ago I came up with this simple yet powerful quote: Difficulties do not equate to impossibilities, and if this can use one more thought I will leave this with you: Look back to move forward!

You've got this King.
You've got this, Queen.
The world is waiting for you to be strong and stay determined.

Ride (Your) Process

Today is October 31, 2018 and on this very day you may feel how we can all feel when it seems that we are getting nowhere fast. I want you to gather those thoughts right now and release them forever in 3...2...1!

    I decided to name this blog Journey of 1000 Steps because that is honestly how I feel at times. To get from point A to point B often feels like the longest and most drawn out experience/ However, I had to learn to gather every anxious and negative reservation about how my journey should look and how many steps I should have to take, and simply release them forever. Of course this is easier said than done but the practice of it is worth giving a shot. One of my favorite passages of scripture comes from Proverbs 3 verses 5-6:

               Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understandings. 
In all thy ways acknowledge him. and he shall direct thy paths. 

This scripture lets me know that my ways of thinking about how my journey should go, is not something I should burden myself with. Why? because trusting in the Lord completely and doing all things unto him guarantees me a "walk way" that has already been paved. I only need to follow its leading. I know you have been working hard at your craft, business plan, demo reels, certifications, etc., and more than anything you are ready to leap (that's perfect! Keep that same energy) but let's do a mini maintenance checklist shall we! Is your heart pure towards Christ? Are you living for Him the best way you know how? Living for Christ is the only guarantee that we will never be in a gamble with life. (He can do anythinnggggg!) Are you playing the comparison game? Are you longing for quicker results because the guy or girl on your Instafeed is poppin' and walkin' in their destiny? (your time will come. You don't know the things they had to endure to even be able to post that pic) Are you ready for the inevitable demands that'll come with expanded territory? I know it isn't the first thing on our minds when we are thinking "Mannn, when will my process produce more results?", but to whom much is given much is required. Are you going through or growing through your lessons? Sometimes we can be so focused on the product that unbeknownst to us, we end up abandoning our process before the lessons within have a chance to mold us into the man or woman we need to be for that next level or for our destiny.

I know sis, I know bro; it can seem like a drag while we wait on our promise from God, that huge opportunity, or that dream to come true but if you want to be fully equipped to handle and occupy your PURPOSED THING (career, finances, family, relationships, marriage, friendships...), you have to RIDE YOUR PROCESS. The things I need to improve in or be stripped of may not be the same for you but guess what, we are all in this together (S/O to the original High School Musical.. a wordddddT). There is nothing too hard for God and nothing that He will cause you to miss when you allow Him to direct your path.

Ride Your Process... It's already worth it!