This week I was in charge for a few days.  My boss was out of town attending a conference, and two other counselors who typically oversee the clinic were out on vacation.  My boss asked me to be the "go to" person.  I usually feel much more comfortable in the 'follower" role.  This time, though, I wanted to be a team player and knew there needed to be someone to lead.  I accepted her request.

It was as if I'd been asked to perform a solo dance.  I'd never danced alone, but I knew the steps--knew them well.  I entered the stage, my tap shoes securely laced.  The curtain parted, the spotlight fixed on me.  I began tapping, my body remembering the routine, freedom and joy filling me as I made my way across the stage, the rhythmic, sonorous beats of my shoes on the wooden stage resounding throughout the theatre.  By week's end, I bowed, panting, a sheen of perspiration on my face, simultaneously exhausted and invigorated.

The week caused me to think about the importance of remembering things we are proud of in our lives.  Not in an arrogant way.  But rather times we've had successes that have brought satisfaction and increased confidence.  Sometimes we tend to fixate on failures, or regrets.  We all have those, surely.  But what about the "performances" that have gone well?  What about those times when we've taken a well-deserved bow?  I spent some time concocting a list...

Teaching my children to read.

Moving across country and making new friends.

Learning to skateboard when I was eight, traversing hill after hill.

Buying a house on my own and never missing a payment.

Continuing to write, even when I've believed it would be better to quit.

Learning to play the flute.

Getting an "A" in a photography class in college.

Finishing college.

We all have a list.  I encourage you to take an hour out this week and write down at least ten things you are proud of.  Then celebrate your gifting, your courage, your very life. 

In the spirit of The Dance, I thought you might enjoy this link:Uptown Funk