Taking those first steps on the floor may be one of the most nerve-racking experiences of my life.

I can remember how hard it was for my mind and my heart to interlink in order to tell a story through my body for a group of judges who only saw me for a minute or two. The constant noise and thoughts fluttering through my mind had me praying that I don’t make a mistake or forget a major change. I tell myself, “I have to be perfect for not only myself but for others.”

Friday Night Lights, consisted of red and blue sequined costumes, white gloves, and leather boots illuminated by the stadium lights. A full face of makeup was drowned with setting spray to prevent the sweat that my body produces.

People say, “Dance is not a sport. You do not work as hard as any other athlete.”  Dance may look beautiful on the outside, however the inside perspective is not always as pretty. Does every dancer believe this statement, or is it just a mental fixation my mind has created? This is not my first year of the dance team. This is my junior year and second year of Southern Sweethearts, but since I am growing up I have to adapt to different maturity levels. It has been a major learning experience for myself as a dancer and a human being, constantly pushing myself beyond my mental limitations and trying to improve more and more every day. From developing friendships with individuals who have the same passion as me, to influencing younger generations who are afraid of being judged because of that same passion. I dance to escape from the real world and tell stories without having to say one word. You may not know who I am as a person but you know what I bring to the table once the music turns on — sixteen years of blood, sweat, and a ton of tears. Tough love coming from my coaches who already have seen my potential and just want me to believe it. Countless hours of body aches, bruises, and cramps. But this is not a “sport.”

I will always appreciate the ones who have supported me throughout this entire journey, like my high school coaches, studio coaches, teammates, and family. Dance made me who I am today. This sport has made me a very successful individual. Needless to say, without a core foundation you can’t continue to build in places that have been broken and destroyed. However, you can make a change by throwing your dance shoes on and taking your first step forward.