I have always liked to dance. I got into Latin dance initially in the mid 2010s when I went party hopping for New Years’ in Dallas with a Mexican friend. We danced in many living rooms that night, and learning to salsa from your friend’s Abuela is the absolute best way.
I got back into Latin dance a year or so ago, took classes, and even helped teach them for a short while. I took a few months’ break recently and came back to the dance floor literally in the past week. It felt so natural to put those shoes back on and feel the rhythm guide me.
On Friday, one of the more popular local instructors held a social at the DoubleTree. I went to see how busy it was, arriving just at the end of the introductory lesson provided for new dancers. To my surprise, I saw a coworker there learning! She looked fairly green on the dance floor, and I was so happy to see someone I know learning something I love. We said hi and she introduced me to her friend after the first dance.
I had a lot of fun and ran into at least 4 other people I had danced with in the past. The number of familiar faces was comforting. People remembered me and seemed happy to see me again.
I met a lady who must have been my mom’s age or a little younger. We danced merengue together to a salsa song, taking turns leading each other. It was the cutest, silliest moment ever. I hope I see her at more socials. Dancing with her reminded me how important it is to just lighten up and have fun sometimes.
Later, I found that a lady from my hiking group was there, too. She told me before that she also enjoyed Latin dance. We had a lengthy discussion about the art not too long ago. This was my first time seeing her at a social, and it made me feel so happy that another woman I enjoy seeing was independently also a part of this community.
I stayed until nearly midnight (I didn’t notice the time), when one of the people I knew there told me it was getting pretty late and offered to walk with me to my car since they were leaving too. All in all it was a good night, though removing those beloved dance shoes reminded me of all the work my feet had put in.
I’m so happy I went out to the DoubleTree to dance. I look forward to sharing many more dances with you.
Love Always,
Rachel
Uncommon Rachel 