Belly Dancing

and Other

Sorts of Tomfoolery

My daughter and I decided we needed two things: time together and stress-releasing exercise.  Quite frankly, we lacked discipline in both. So, we made the possibly ill-advised decision to take belly-dancing lessons, inspired by the graceful motions and exotic music. That the outfits jingle was icing on the proverbial cake. 

With great anticipation and more than a little trepidation, I signed us up for the class. “How hard can this be?” I wondered out-loud. “I took ballet and jazz as a youth, surely I have rhythm enough for this! Besides,” I reasoned, “this is all about time with my daughter. Who cares if I’m a bit out of place?” 

Little did I know how ridiculous I would look! I discovered immediately that my body no longer obeys. Period. It doesn’t even pretend.

 Yet the instructor made it look so easy! Her movements were fluid and hypnotic. Her stamina was obvious; she didn’t even work up a sweat after the hour-long class. I, on the other hand, could barely move. Even my wrists ached. Seriously.

 Sigh.

This month, we will end our 50 days observance of Easter with the observance of  PENTECOST.  It is a celebration of  God’s gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church. It reminds us of the power and grace and majesty possible when God shows up.

 Have you ever met people filled with the Holy Spirit? Some are flamboyant; they are “on fire” for Jesus. Others quietly handle the day-to-day issues of life in a manner that is calm, confident, and focused on the presence of God in their lives.  All seem to possess ease and confidence. They are nonplussed by the twists and turns, ups and downs that life brings.

When I see such people, I immediately see how ridiculous I seem in comparison. My Spiritual muscles ache too easily from lack of use.

The good news, of course, is that practice does make a difference. I will not likely ever possess the control and ability of our instructor—but I will only be the novice for a season.

So too, my Spiritual muscles grow as I intentionally spend time in God’s presence, reading His word, and learning from my Spiritual mentors.

I’m glad I am spending time with my daughter. I’m glad we’re learning something together, and laughing in the process.  And, I’m glad I have Spiritual mentors to teach me the graceful dance of faith—even as I, in turn, invite others to learn from me.

Belly Dancing and other Sorts of Tomfoolery…I wouldn’t have it any other way.