Dancing seems to be a religion here in Leisure World. Looking for a new house of worship, my wife and I sampled the congregations.
The denomination of Friday night’s service, our fourth in eight nights, was swing. We like swing–we listened to bands like Cherry Poppin’ Daddies and Royal Crown Revue when swing was popular. We even took dance lessons. Unfortunately, I can’t lead, she can’t follow, and we couldn’t make it work the other way either. A two-minute “Learn to Swing” video later, this time we were ready.
There was the usual assortment of people you’d find in a club. The woman in her animal print. The guy who is here only because his wife wants to dance–gripping his chair as if it might fly away. The ladies’ man who found a different partner each song.
A large group of Asian dancers sat at the table next to ours along with a couple of other people. I overheard one woman complaining to the Jewish man across from her that people often think the Asian diet is meatless. “We are almost Kosher,” she said. “Almost Kosher,” he replied, “that’s like being almost pregnant. There is no such thing!” Apparently, his Rabbi neglected to teach him about the Chinese restaurant exception–everything is kosher in a Chinese restaurant. At least that’s what I was always told. Is it also true for a Chinese kitchen? I’ll have to consult the Rabbi.
We’ve seen this group of Asians at all the dances. They are the best dancers by far–they have all the moves. One woman in particular stands out. Always dressed in shimmering tops that would’ve gotten into any uptown club in 1975, her lines are long, lithe, and graceful, a Brâncuși bird ready to take flight. On the dance floor, her energy is infectious–bold moves, big smile, fully absorbed in the dance.
The eldest couples are the real heroes. Their lines may now be crooked here and there, their moves no longer graceful. But they remember the steps and give it their all. All in the name of having a good time. They inspire me. I hope I’m still dancing if I reach that age.
Life is dance.
Dance is life.
Maybe next week the band will rock and roll.