Penny fell behind in ballet earlier this year. During cheer season, she missed a lot of classes and rehearsals. She also (unbeknownst to me) started sitting out of the rehearsals even when she was there. At the end of cheerleading,her teacher emailed her to let her know she needed to start participating fully if she wanted to dance in her final performance this June.
For twelve years, Penny has danced at Fineline Theatre Arts. The teachers there know her. They’ve let her develop at her own pace. But they have also always expected her to learn and grow and—taking as much time as she needs—try the next thing.
Their ensuing email exchange shows why I am so grateful for people in Penny’s life who both want to accommodate her needs with kindness and expect her to push herself appropriately, who provide opportunities and assume possibility:
Penny:
Sometimes I feel like the steps are too challenging for me. I know I should speak up and just say that, but it’s hard to work up the courage to speak up. Basically, what I am feeling is, Intimidated by the older students who can do the harder steps.
Georgina:
Thank you for sharing your feelings so honestly! I appreciate knowing a bit more about what’s going on internally. I have seen you perform, and I have total confidence that with focus and rehearsal we can get you on the same page as everyone else! There’s nothing in the piece that you cannot do, so I’m sure we can make this work. I’m looking forward to digging in to the steps with you so you feel comfortable.
Penny:
You’re welcome. I am glad that you are more aware of what’s been happening. Thank you for your words of encouragement, they are really helpful. I want to be able to make this work as well. I am also looking forward to working with you.
Penny came home from dance last week and said, “Mom, I’m working on landing a double pirouette. I’m the last person in the class to be able to do it.”
I asked her how she felt about that.
She said, “I’m not discouraged.” She paused. And then she said, “I’m just determined.”
MORE WITH AMY JULIA:
- Workshop: Reimagining Family Life with Disability
- On Pointe, Step by Determined Step
- Penny’s Dance Fest
- Dance Like Everybody’s Watching (and Celebrating What They See)
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