Grace Like Rain

Poise. Art. Discipline. Grace.

The art of ballet is fierce and beautiful. Each move is a Kodak moment. Elegant effluence of the body, fluid like a snake's slither. Detail and effortless concentration in every part of their body from the fingers to the toes.

Ballet is a combination of dancing and acting, but without speaking, which makes it all the more difficult. Telling a story without words is easier said than done in our society. We thrive on words. But that's not the point.

The point is ballet. Unfortunately, the only ballet I've watched is the different versions of The Nutcracker on television during the Christmas season. Everyone is familiar with The Nutcracker Suite song and several other songs I bet they don't know are from this performance. Just viewing the multiple versions that play each year astounds me. It may also have a bit to do with the fact that I know almost nothing of ballet so it all looks fabulous. Yet I am fascinated by the different and various interpretations that premiere each year. Though I am not familiar with the different productions by name, they fail to disappoint.

The way the ballerinas and ballerinos move is an art in itself. All is natural and beautiful. They tone their muscles and condition their bodies to do just that. There is a sensuality even in the most unflattering moments. For example, one performance made a pillow fight look like a photo shoot of pixies by a waterfall. Every movement is purposeful and distinct. Grace, determination, and focus are ballerinas' and ballerinos' staples. They have to feel every muscle and dictate how they want it to look and be very comfortable with their bodies. The curve of the hand, the pointedness of the foot, and the arch of the back making a portrait of a Greek statue.

Why has ballet decreased in popularity? It is a beautiful art that doesn't get the credit it deserves. Maybe it is popular, but in my low-brow community, it would attract as much attention as a discarded beer can on the street. It's not as appreciated as it used to be. Is it an upper class event? Or rather simply that people do not care so much for it anymore?

Imagine if people were to move about like ballet dancers. I envy their grace. The stamina, elegance, and beauty of them all. They make it look so easy, but when I try it in a mirror, well, let's not go there. It makes me appreciate their efforts and style all the more.

It just goes to show that if you follow your dreams and dedicate yourself--your body and mind--you achieve mindfulness and you will get somewhere in life. Or at least look good trying to get there. Make life beautiful and enjoy every minute.