Dancing through Life with Passion

Dancing through Life with Passion: I am back

2011-02-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

Dancing through Life with Passion: I am back: "I took a long hiatus since my last post. I wasn't even sure I would be back to be totally honest. I can give myself excuses and say I've bee..."

I am back

2011-02-12T12:55:00.000-08:00

I took a long hiatus since my last post. I wasn't even sure I would be back to be totally honest.
I can give myself excuses and say I've been very busy - which is no news - and yet I know I was "star struck" by other Bloggers I've been following and felt my blog was just a bunch of silly thoughts.

In the past weeks I have been getting ready to start my new goal. I am emotionally aroused by the fact that I am commencing a Yoga Teacher Training next week. It has been some time since I felt those "ants" walking inside my body...the ones that tell me I am scared, anxious, excited and somehow ready to walk this new road.

I have been looking for a preschool for my toddler as well. And believe me, that one ended up being a challenging task. I toured approximately 12 different schools ( maybe a couple more? I lost track! ) only to find myself in such an emotional state; picturing my kid entering every single one of those places; trying to follow my gut; asking parents; checking reviews..oh well. Can you tell I am a first time mom? :)
All in all I now know that feeling of wanting to give your offspring the best. And as I told my mom: I am sure I will be laughing about this struggle when I look back at it in time.

What else? I found myself wanting to sit and blog about tons of emotions, thoughts and things I learn every day; but not necessarily connected to the Israeli Dances I love, learn, teach and enjoy every week. Then I thought..I should be changing the name of this blog; because it is mostly about the dance of life that starts every morning when I wake up, rests only when I do, plus resumes its moves the next time I am up. And boy I am grateful for that!

I don't know if I can convey all the feelings that go through me and help with them the people around. It is my wish though to take this space and turn it into a peaceful, meaningful, reflective cove.
My yoga learning will lead the way and I hope you'll enjoy walking that path together with me.
I am here now. I am dancing. I am breathing.

To rest or not to rest

2011-01-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

I am exhausted. Wait! but we just started the new year! Nonetheless.. I need a vacation!
Oh! Now I remember..I am going on a mini vacation in a week ..to a dance camp!
Excuse me?..What kind of person in her senses would choose a dance camp to rest??
A Dance Weekend event is one where you learn, practice and dance non stop for a few days in a row. Added are the night parties which go until insane hours ...oh yes! This is the PERFECT place to RELAX!
Well..at least I know there are some others out there who chose to chill with me :)

Let me tell you that if I just wanted to learn the dances I could easily do it by getting the DVD.
The truth is that I go to camp to meet with a bunch of good friends; reconnect with dancers I know from all over the place, get away from city life (there's usually little to no reception in our cell phones), create new memories, enjoy the dancing fun and have that feeling of "living life in a small bubble of joy" that most people who attend can only understand.

I decided to go to Camp Ramah in Ojai, CA because I have good friends coming and I know it is what I need to have a great time next weekend. As a bonus I will get to learn dances from two wonderful, young, energetic teachers coming from Israel and sing many dances while holding hands in the big circle. Yet I gather I will get very little sleep :) But sleep is over rated I heard!

It is going to be the first time leaving my daughter at home as well. She will have two full days with "aba" ( dad ) and I am hoping I will survive missing her :)
But I also believe that my leaving will be very beneficial for both. A happy mom makes a happy kid.
Mommy also needs some time to play with her friends, then return home refreshed.

I do know I will need some sleep adjustment once I am back...still no complaints!
I really hope to see some of my good dancing friends at this relaxed pace Camp that has such a friendly atmosphere you just can't avoid the fun. I am sure we will have some exciting new dances to share together with jokes, musical dinners and just a few laughs about our teachers bloopers :)
I heard there are still some spots left ! If you don't have a plan during Martin Luther King Jr weekend check out http://www.ramah.org/pr_rikkudiah.shtml and join the fun.

Have a restful weekend !

Another year has gone by

2010-12-29T22:33:00.000-08:00

I am finally sitting in front of my blog again. Busy weeks passed yet this last one is no exception.

This is the time when between dreams, illusions, deceptions and reality we say goodbye to the finishing year and await the brand new one.
While looking back at the experiences we had, the things that helped us become a different human being, the people we loved, the ones we helped, some others we hurt; we also remember the people who left us , others who were sick and recovered, the ones who we decided not to be around anymore, the newborns and the ones we reconnected with; we can see our year has been loaded with emotions and opportunities.
For some of us it may have been a sad and dark year; for others one full of light and happiness.

Even when we know we are not responsible for everything happening to us, we all have the option and opportunity to make a new start and do the best with what comes to us.
It is important to have a list of resolutions (even if it is only in your head, which means you have a much better memory than mine :). Having a tangible list makes the accomplishments more exciting.

There are some important points to bear in mind in order to start a good year :)

Having clear goals
Being realistic
Creating an action plan
Discipline
Commitment
Willpower

All of the above needs to be mixed in with patience, flexibility and perseverance. Also major: things lived in the past can be useful to make positive changes.
It is of great significance staying in reality as well as setting goals that are compatible with our way of living.We need to cherish what we have so we can incorporate, learn, get better and continue growing year after year.
When we have a clear goal and visualize it, we have to focus then imagine the benefits of succeeding to bring our goals much closer. Having a plan helps us stick to our destination and even surpass difficulties that may come our way.

Living involves growing, renewing and reinventing ourselves continuously. Resolutions give human beings an opportunity to look into their aspirations, needs and attainments.
Resolutions are inspiring as long as we make them true.
Love and empathy are big in my everyday life and I hope it is somewhere in yours as well.
Wishing all a healthy, filled with accomplishments 2011.

Let's continue, our life is in front of us
it's not late because tomorrow is a new day
the dream will perish if we lose the hope
so reach out to love

(From the song "Tikvah"-Hope)

Unity

2010-12-23T21:29:00.000-08:00

The yoga class that I take weekly with my toddler had a "family day" due to the end of the year.
This is a program where moms and crawlers/walkers interact during one hour. The adults follow the lead of a wonderful, experienced teacher while we sing kids songs. The babies just follow what we do by copying and/or playing with lots of sized and shaped balls laid down on the floor in advance.

My daughter loves this class since day one; this is why I was very excited to bring "aba" ("dad" in Hebrew - the way she calls him ) to this event.
Luckily there were other dads who joined the afternoon which made it more fun.
The class was so well put together that it was just amazing to see how the little ones interacted, followed, laughed as well as coming to us for hugs and smiles. My daughter's excitement made her run across the room for the first ten minutes :)

The program made me realize how important it is to do things as a family. I mean besides going out on trips, running errands, going to the park..Watching our kid looking at us doing yoga, singing and moving together , having both of us connecting in a different way with her made my day. Children learn from what they experience over what we can say to them. Showing them that we care about our bodies, that we enjoy movement; dancing with them, singing together are all ways to pass health on.

Doing things as a unity gives us a sense of belonging. It conveys responsibility and support in this complex world. Positive actions lead to positive feelings; when acting with thankfulness and enjoyment we transfer those emotions to the ones around. Showing we can learn, make mistakes, fall and stand up again we are preparing our loved ones to walk life better prepared.

In Israeli Folk Dancing I see how sometimes families bring their children along and with time, patience and some luck kids take on the challenge and get into it. It is so nice to see them sharing the passion. Same in many classes at the gym where I see moms and teens sweating yet smiling at each other.
Remember: Being a role model has more value than what words can say. You can't teach something you don't do or believe in your heart. What creates a vivid impression in a child stays in him forever.
Enjoy the holidays among your loved ones!

You are in my heart,
you are the flower that smiles in my soul,
in my soul.
You flow in my blood and in every breath
And for me you will be a little one even when you grow up..

(From Ata Belibi- You are in my heart)

One day it will happen

2010-12-21T21:50:00.000-08:00

I am inspired by some quotes lately..I love that they convey great thoughts to help us reflect.
Today I found the following:

"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain."

Maya Angelou

In the spirit of starting anew I believe this is a very helpful statement. I am often caught up in complaints. I tend to worry a little more than what's needed, and with worry comes stress. Sometimes complaining about something trivial helps even start some conversation, doesn't it?
The truth is that matters to complain about are endless. Who doesn't have reasons to be upset about things that happen at work, among family members, friends, in the streets, to name a few?

The key is to "change the attitude". This sounds great on paper although being able to do it means breaking our old structures. Like I was saying in my last blog, it is about approaching things from a different point of view.
Life can be lived as a long, tedious path or in a positive, creative way. It only depends on us.
If we are accepting, thankful and confident; if we take initiative and are determined to find a purpose in life we will realize how precious and exciting our roads can be.
Yet all of the above makes sense when our heart is involved. Love is the main ingredient to surpass any challenge.

Wouldn't it be great to start the new year after making a pact with ourselves? From now on I am going to count how many times I complain in a day. After one day, every time I am about to kvetch about a fact I will try to do something about it instead ( or change my attitude towards it if there's nothing else to be done ). Great things come from a bunch of small ones, don't they? :-) Maybe by accomplishing one task a day we find ourselves in a much better place in the short run.

This is it. Another wish for the new and better year to come. It's on my to do list :)

One day it will happen
Without us feeling it, something will change
Something in us will calm down,
will touch us
And there will be nothing to be scared off

( From "Mechakeh"- Waiting )

A change in perspective

2010-12-20T13:34:00.000-08:00

T'is the season to look forward to the things we want to accomplish yet reviewing the ones we did.
My head was moving back and forth between them this morning when I read this quote from Baltasar Gracián y Morales:

"Attempt easy tasks as if they were difficult, and difficult as if they were easy; in the one case that confidence may not fall asleep, in the other that it may not be dismayed."

I got caught by it since I am the type who generally approaches hard tasks with a big amount of concern. If you can picture a serious look, frowning eyebrows and focused mind..that's me!

Have you ever felt at times like you are seeing things more complicated than they really are? Our minds tend to wrap themselves into suppositions we make from simple situations. "What if this specific thing really means this other one?" "How is it possible to make things simple when everything is so challenging?"
We tend to forget that we need to accept the fact that often things don't have deep explanations.
There are things we just need to take the way they are, the more I look for a deeper meaning, the further away I move from understanding it.

Life is complicated per definition. It would be of great help if we can manage situations and feelings with a "hands on" look: This is what's going on, I need to do "x" to change it. If only it was easy enough!
But remember..not everything that happens to us is personal. There are moments when "it's life". We are not responsible for everything going on around us.
When we take things personally over and over again, it makes us suffer more and find more obstacles to achieve happiness.

So I am thinking that one of my goals for the upcoming year is to "attempt difficult tasks as if they were easy"; or at least easier than what they look. Maybe my 2011 will be happier after all :-) Hope yours is as well!

Let us live this day from the start
give (it) to us beginning to the end
and then you will see how I walk
the straight road and I keep on walking
and walking, and walking.

(From "Hayom Hayom"-Today)

You will never leave me

2010-12-17T08:45:00.000-08:00

This is the season when we tend to reflect about our lives..yet sometimes it takes us a lot of time and insight to understand what a mother means for us.

I am extremely blessed to have my mom in my life; even though she is geographically far we are close as we can be. Technology acts as the miracle which keeps as connected everyday although we are both old timers and love to send each other things through snail mail every once in a while :-)

I could state that my mom is a regular one; but in my world she is far from that.
She did some studies; she left things behind to take care of her kids; she took the time to teach me what I believe is a conspicuous amount of who I am; even so she instructed me by being herself. And she keeps herself very busy these days :)
My mother made and keeps making lots of mistakes..then I am a novice at being a mommy myself so I understand now how difficult it is not to make any!

What I cherish the most is the fact that she supports me in every way. When I do right, when I do wrong, when I am not sure which road to take, when in pain so as in laughter, when feeling lonely as well as when I have the happiest news to share. She is always there for me.
As I said, I am blessed and lucky.

I have friends who lost their moms; others who have them very far from their hearts. Some of them can't share any feelings since their moms won't listen and there are the ones whose moms are sick and can't take care of themselves.
I believe in one way or another we all have a mother in our hearts and souls. It can be a chosen one; someone who plays that role when in lack of the one related by blood.

My mother gives me unconditional love and this is what gives me strength, confidence and makes me feel heard when in need. She will also disagree when she wants to show me I am wrong.
I learned that each sibling in a family has a "different" mom even when it is the same. Then I guess we are different kids and that may be the reason why we "live" different relationships each one of us. Still, this is the mom we have and we love her in our own particular ways.

Many times we wish our moms could change and be someone we want her to be. Now..remember when they say "you can't change anybody but yourself"? Oh well..this is I believe one of our biggest challenges in life: to accept, conciliate with this person who does the best she can, the best way she knows.
Come to think that mothers have the most difficult task in the world; we graduate to motherhood the same day a child is born...and we didn't go to school for it! Parents learn while walking the road and nowadays there is more information which is of great help compared to the past.

Someone taught me that people who leave a mark in your life are always inside of you. Even when they are not around you can travel to your heart and think of how that person would have answered to your questions as well as give you warmth. My mother is definitely one of those.
Thank you mom for being who you are. Becoming a mother myself contributed in understanding all the sacrifices someone does in the name of true love. Yet it is the best feeling one could ask for.
Thank you. I love you.

Who walks by my side
for the length of the journey
with each dream, each look,
Mother.

Who wraps all of me,
in a never ending warmth
in love, in worry,
Mother.

Just embrace me
and see who's dearest to me of all
don't change for me
don't leave me ever, ever.
You know the way,
to the heart that has no secret
your hand touches my soul
and covers everything.

Who gives all of herself
without a shadow of regret
in her soul close to me
dear Mother.
You were never broken
you never err
you wipe away my tear,
Mother.

Like a sun you shine

and evil turns to good
come Mother, take the fear
and hug me close.

( From the dance "Ima"- Mother )

Dancing the year away

2010-12-15T21:09:00.000-08:00

We are very close to the end of the year and I see many folk dance celebrations coming up around the country.
I am having my last 2010 Dance Party this coming Saturday as well so I feel the excitement around the corner.

Most of us dance leaders feel the need to rejoice with our extended families by showing our love in motion. The main attire being the dance shoes, we gather not only to share snacks but mostly our love for the choreographies that captured our hearts and make us sing along while moving in circles.

I was reading about the origins of dance in the world and it is interesting to point out that dance has been certainly an important part of ceremony, rituals, celebrations and entertainment since before the birth of the earliest human civilizations.
It was used in a structured way to tell myths and show feelings even before language existed.
Even though there is a countless amount of styles, they all have something in common: Dance is used as a form of expression, social interaction and involves a spiritual connection.

Dance is generally compared to life; learning to flow effortlessly through it is a stimulating task yet more fun when shared with others.
Even when not being part of a dance community it is refreshing to play some music and just move to the rhythm. Don't forget it is healthy for the body and soul as well :-)

To me, dancing makes me feel in the moment. I am present, alive and every minute counts.
In this crazy world; we forget to live in the moment at times..we save for the future, we take our time to ask for forgiveness, we are afraid to show our feelings, we make plans long in advance dismissing our everyday treasure: life. It is all about the little moments that we add up.
I am wishing you feel the spirit of peace and love that dance gives me. Embrace it and share it these holidays. When in need of a smile, remember to dance!

This is the time to wake up
to a nicer world
to touch with a great love in our hearts
this is the time to come close,
there is no more fear of pain

Together we are one, ooh...
hope rises in our hearts, hey...
I know that we, we can make it if we try
look into your soul,
listen to your heart
I will love you forever

( From the song "Ze Hazman"-It's the time )

The end is where we start from

2010-12-13T18:05:00.000-08:00

I read the following quote from T.S. Elliot today :
"What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from."

As we are approaching the end of the year I felt this statement could be a good starting point to think about our actions, accomplishments, emotions as well as how we see ourselves looking back.

It also made me reflect on the difficulty it poses to close a cycle at times. We are afraid of what's going to come; taking a step to the unknown feels like falling into an abyss. What if I am alone? What if I loose what I had? What if I don't feel comfortable in my new skin? How am I going to be seen by my peers? Are they going to think less of me if I make this change?

Sometimes faith can be a great ingredient to use when a new beginning comes. It is something we have inside which can teach and help us become stronger throughout our lives.
Staying positive yet being calm when capable will help appreciate everything coming our way.
Accepting that we can succeed at our new endeavours is at times more difficult than making peace with things we are afraid to let go.

This is just the beginning of the end of the year. A signal to kickoff the tornado of thoughts before we encounter the new commencement, or the end.

It's the time,it's the day, it's the moment

The freedom is calling me from all the roads

It's the time, it's the day, it's the moment

The freedom is calling me to take the exit to new lives.

(From Hatchala Chadasha- New Beginning )

I still have more strength

2010-12-12T17:45:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday I was scheduled to run an event in San Francisco during the evening.
I left home one hour and 45 minutes before the job since I am about 45 minutes away of SF downtown and I knew the traffic conditions could become somewhat challenging.
While driving the road went from bad to worse; with every minute lost stuck in the freeway my heart was hurting more. After one half hour I called my contact person and left a message explaining the situation as well as saying I would probably be late.
A while passed and my phone call was returned. The young lady was clearly unhappy that I was trapped in my car and regretted I didn't plan better. I expressed my disappointment as well and told her I was trying my best to make it as fast as I could.
Traffic became a nightmare and the ride ended up taking two and a half hours. Imagine my feelings..I was upset, running from my car to the building; reasoning how I was going to break the ice and do my best for this job.
When I finally stood at the door of the place, I get another phone call from her. Right away I let her know I am on my way in to what she says: Well, you can turn around and go home because it's too late; people are starting to leave already and there's no point on starting the dance session. I am very disappointed that you are unprofessional. My director was here and all the people who came for this event left let down by you. Can you imagine how I felt? After sitting for two hours and a half, feeling useless and ashamed in my car, I hear this. I apologized many times and took full responsibility for being late; I also let her know I never thought this ride could take the time it did. But she didn't care. She just let me know she accepted the apologies and would never call me back.

I cried all the way to the parking lot while lamenting not thinking better. I'm quite new in the Bay Area and never had this kind of traffic problem before. After I came back home I wrote an email to the hiring person and again, apologized truly from my heart taking charge for what happened.
I never got a reply.
All in all, I decided to share this story because it happened the same night I wrote about feeling guilty..It almost feels as if I anticipated what happened.

Yesterday while talking to my brother in law while our visit in San Antonio, I told him the story and he simply said: "Listen, this is what it is. Traffic happens, this person was probably in a bad spot because you couldn't show up and she will never forgive you. Don't expect her to ever call back..But, this is life, you learn and move on."
It definitely sounded much simpler than all the feelings in my head.

I realized I had been very upset at looking irresponsible and making such a mistake, then the truth is that there was an element I couldn't control, and life is just like this..there are things we can't command.
This blog is just about finding that balance, forgiving myself and moving on.
I am blessed to have good friends and loved ones close who are supportive and even if I was responsible for what happened they are around to tell me it's ok and life goes on.

This is just about remembering the road is full of stones.We can get stuck and stop our trip or just find a way to get around them..don't you think?

I still have more strength now
just to take it all, it's already written and forgiven
and the heart becomes recovered
and the rain stopped
and then the moon comes back
spring is again arriving,
back again

(From "Yesh Bi Od Koach"-I still have more strength )

Friday

2010-12-10T18:55:00.000-08:00

Another week comes to an end.
Mine was busy, challenging, hectic, happy as well as lacking some sleep. Will I ever nap again? :)
We are leaving today on a trip to visit family in Texas. I've never been there so it should be fun!

Hanukkah is over , the rush of the holiday preparations got to everyone! At least in my town.
This is the time when we start thinking about the year passed; we check our to do lists and mark what we accomplished and what we yet have to do.

I will write about my list very soon. For the moment I am signing off wishing you all a peaceful weekend. I hope you find the time to rest, reflect, enjoy nature and let yourself be surprised by life. Same as I will try to do.
Have a great weekend!

A rose will blossom in my garden
At dusk, the evening will glow
In my window the doves will sing
And in my heart it's Sabbath Eve

(From "Erev Shabbat"- Shabbat Eve)

Guilty?

2010-12-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt guilty of something you did or were part of?
I do remember feeling like this in the past as well as some present conditions that put me in that spot.

Sometimes a situation can be lived as just a bad experience or an unforgettable moment that teaches us for the future except that for others it can become a lifelong torture. In the last option, the condition repeats over and over again without any resolution other than feeling uncomfortable and impotent.
Moreover, if you feel responsible in part for what happened; the guilt can be accompanied with feelings of frustration, fury and even depression.

I understand there are events we can't change, but living trapped in the past with all those negative feelings can't be of any good for your life. I think it is important to find the courage to reconcile with the world and oneself, to ask for forgiveness, repair and most of all keep moving forward looking for reasons to make life special. We only have one chance.

Guilt can be pushed away if we bring in acceptance together with being brave. Then we become better human beings.
Don't forget that we make mistakes, yet this faults can be used to learn and grow.
Now don't think for a minute that because I am writing this it makes it any easier. Many times I find myself feeling responsible for something I don't know how to change for the better..then months later I still am in the same corner.
I guess I need to be stronger and try harder. If I leave judgement aside I may accomplish positive results next time.
The main thing is remembering to be grateful as life gives us always new chances to improve.

Don't worry,
after the noise there is silence
After the rain there is a rainbow in the cloud

Don't worry,
if there is pain, there is love
After the crying,
there is always a reason to laugh
Don't worry

( From "Al Tidag"- Don't Worry)

Ready to play?

2010-12-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to an open house for a school I am interested in; then this morning I visited a kindergarten where I could be sending my toddler next fall. How funny is that?

The meeting I attended for my prospective school produced mixed feelings. It was a weird amount of being anxious, nervous and wondering if I remember what it is to be in an educational setting after so many years of being on the "teacher" side. I tried to imagine myself sitting at a class taking notes and interacting with other students:
I was afraid to ask questions; I was wondering if my inquires would be silly compared to the rest of the people..some of them looked so determined!
I decided to just be in the moment and see how I felt.

This morning my daughter came with me to see the preschool. The second we entered the first classroom she asked me to take her out of her stroller and there she went. She blended with toys and kids; she started playing with pots and pans, walking around and saying: "Wow"..wow! (she says wow when she sees something new and appealing..so imagine how many wows she said! :)

I wish I was like her. Life takes our "fresh approach" on things as we walk it, doesn't it? When we meet a grownup who is more playful at times we see him as immature.
I know; extremes are not good for us, but being aware that we need to get in touch with our "inside toddler" from time to time is important.
Looking at things not only from a "wow" perspective but also feeling confident that whatever I have in me to share will be unique, makes experience richer.

This whole event of things made me also ponder about the emotions lived by new dancers who try a class. You may feel like you know very little even when you've been exercising for a while; or that you can't add much to the group..but you always can. Don't forget you have your own abilities and trying something unfamiliar fortifies your weaknesses. Then, you are creating self confidence.

Can you challenge yourself to try one new thing with kids eyes? Yet if you do it all the time would you help someone else who doesn't? :)

Melodies of childhood are already distant.
Even the guitar is ashamed to speak.
And no one remains for me, who will tell the story...
(From "Metukim"- Sweets)

The type of love I want

2010-12-07T11:06:00.000-08:00

An 80 year old man arrived at the hospital to have some stitches removed from his thumb and asked a doctor kindly to do it fast since he had an appointment in half an hour.
The physician tried to help him even though he knew it could take long and asked him if he had another practitioner's meeting he needed to be at. The man told him no, he had to meet his wife for breakfast at her nursing home.
The doctor asked about his wife's health only to know she had Alzheimer's for long time. He then inquired if she would be upset due to her husband coming late.
The sweet old man explained that she could not recognize him since years before. Surprised, the doctor asked: "And you still go every morning, even though she does not know who you are?"
The mature man patted his hand and said: "She doesn't know who I am but I still know who she is" .

This story made me tear and think this is the type of love I want in my life.
True love is neither physical, nor romantic. It is the acceptance of all that is, was, has been, will and will not be.
Love is a delicate feeling and making it last in time takes a great amount of effort. Yet, when you feel true love your life has a depth and meaning worth to experience.

To love is a gift from the soul then the enjoyment of giving is what makes it grow. Loving is a personal decision which demands a little bit of craziness and some magic too; but if we are committed, dedicated and faithful it can become solid and able to surpass the strongest crisis.
To love means at times disagreeing as long as respect is kept in the picture.

The ingredients to mix in the soup of love are: *A full box of commitment *A cup of generosity *Five spoons of dedication * A handful of fidelity * Four drops of intimacy and * A tad of magic :)
Some of the ingredients are going in extinction..I know; but I trust us humans to be resourceful and find them looking inside our souls.

There is no other love like this in the world
Like in the bible, Adam and Eve
I want you to know it is from here until the end

In good times and bad, I will continue to love
I will soar to the sky, cross the sea
I will follow you to the end of the world
(From the dance: "Ad Sof Ha Olam-To the End of the World)

Dreams

2010-12-06T11:32:00.000-08:00

I got to see this video about Israeli Folk Dancing with Gadi Bitton in Israel. If you've never heard this name I can briefly tell you that there very much is a "before and after" him in our folk dance world.

If you are curious to see a tiny drop of what he does click below..It's in Hebrew language but you may still get a feel of his magnitude:

http://www.mako.co.il/news-channel2/Weekend-Newscast/Article-09c13ec3ace8c21004.htm

This film made me ponder how far can desire take a human being. They say that if you wish something really hard you can make it real. Well..If you do some homework about this choreographer and how he started, he certainly was and is determined about his dreams.

The first step in achieving a fantasy is to be aware of what you want; at the same time, that idea has to come with positive thoughts.

When you invest time in visualizing something you wish for you are focusing your energy towards it yet the main point is to channel that energy into actions.

You need to come up with a plan, a map that guides your process and put yourself to roll.

Looking for opportunities; talking to people; making phone calls; going to places; making yourself visible to others are all ways to get closer to your goal.

The secret is to convert our thoughts in movement ( and this sounds a lot like when we learn a new dance step :)

All this ideas are not something we can achieve from night to day but I believe that if we are patient (at times we need a lot of it) and really want something from our hearts we have to make it clear in our minds, bring it to the surface, talk about it, make a plan and act upon it.

Even when it feels like it's impossible or untouchable we have to give it a try. One step at the time.

Are you reading Karina? :)

Yesterday's dreams are as trembling flames
All the darkness is not able to put them out
Don't turn your face away, you are full of hidden things
Don't shut away the blinds, look, between the words

Yesterday's dreams are as trembling flames
All the darkness is not able to put them out..

(From the dance by Gadi Bitton "Chalomot"- Dreams )

When things don't go as planned

2010-12-05T09:33:00.000-08:00

Last week I scheduled an appointment to get a much needed massage. I dreamed about it for days and was so excited that I manage to arrange the perfect time for baby to be watched, and a quiet day after it.
The night before the meeting I got a message in my phone in which they let me know it had to be canceled due to a street parade.
I was so upset! I couldn't get out of my disappointment. All my perfect arrangements ruined. My awaited time for myself gone. Why does this happen to me?

The next morning I started reflecting on how we react upon things that don't go the way we want.
The truth is that most of the times life presents us with challenges as well as situations that don't unscramble the manner we expect. We have the choice of feeling frustrated and upset (like I did and it's a normal first reaction I believe) but the goal is trying to use them as an opportunity to learn and move on.

When in need to fight for what we want we grow, we learn; making our lives better.
I am your clear example in showing that it is not an easy labor to just accept defeat; yet sometimes I am good at looking at it with some humor. In the end, looking at things and being able to laugh about them makes our days lighter.

One important point is to always try to finish what we started..then we are able to turn around that taste of defeat. Even if we don't accomplish what was in our plan.
I also believe it is vital to learn from our foiling and pains. To stand up, recover our self confidence and keep focused in what we desire are critical steps in our path to growth.
Don't forget that believing you can get to the finish line is winning half of the race..the rest: life will tell.

End of my story: When I called the massage place and told them I was really disappointed they not only quickly reschedule but also offered free daycare for my toddler while taking the massage. Yeah! :)
I am closing this blog with a smart line I read:
"Focus on solving the problem and not on trying to understand it" ( It can be very useful at times!)

Wiggling all the way to the soul

2010-12-03T10:20:00.000-08:00

If you tried an Israeli Folk Dance class/ session ever before I am positive you had a pretty good workout. Don't tell me you danced the Hora at a Bar Mitzvah; that doesn't count :)

Israeli dancing is a fast paced, aerobic activity comparable to Zumba, Step, Jazz or else in that category.
It is unique in its kind since it adds meaning, tradition and references to the country; its history, struggles, victories, love for the land, religious background and not just the steps.
There's another component I believe has a crucial place in this program and it is the social one.
Now with all this and even if you just like the rhythm, people who choose to take on this course are opting for a healthier way of life.

Any kind of plan that takes our body and mind to a certain level of challenge connects us with what we can accomplish from the starting point.
When I exercise I can experience the physical difference after I finished; my mind feels the benefits as well and the best thing: I start programming my next workout in my head ! It's the nicest kind of addiction one can get :)
They say that being able to combine aerobic workouts together with low impact classes such as yoga, pilates, tai-chi is the best way to keep our bodies and minds centered.

No matter what excites you in terms of staying active, it will certainly make your blood flow better, your endorphins stay in good levels, your body flexible, your muscles stronger and most of all..your soul happy!
There are tons of options out there for you to try..moreover, some of which you may have never heard before. You don't have to commit right away. Give it a test; see how you feel, check your feelings to make sure you enjoy it and if you need help to get motivated you can always invite a friend to sample the choice with you..shared experiences get the thumbs up in life.

Have a relaxing weekend and don't forget to breathe :)

Dance, swing your hand
you're in the rhythm
you're in the magic
dance, dance, dance.
( From "Rikdi"-Dance )

Protect your ideals

2010-12-02T14:26:00.000-08:00

I read an article about Hanukkah where Rabbi Gary Gans from Congregation Beth Tikvah in Evesham, UK stated: "Historically, Hanukkah represents our ability to protect our ideals in the face of an overwhelming majority culture."
This got me thinking of how some situations make it difficult for many of us to stay true to ourselves at times.

There are moments when we feel our ideas may not be as important or valuable as the ones coming from someone who seems to be more confident, have more academic background or just a stronger personality than ours. I feel like this many times; then I try to remind myself that all opinions count.

Every person is unique, has a specific mission and is necessary to complement this world. There's no two people with the same essence, yet this is what makes the world move on and evolve.
It is vital to recognize our weaknesses as well; finding a balance between them and our talents helps us connect in a mature way with others together with being open to fresh input.

I just felt like pointing this out so when we light the Hanukkiah every night for eight nights (tonight being the second) we keep in mind that staying true to ourselves is a blessing and a way of life.

May these thoughts inspire you to pursuit and cherish your ideals even if you don't light the Hanukkah candles or The Festival of Lights is not a part of your tradition.

"..You are sure of yourself

and you raise your head

you are ready for your moment

When night falls you give in

and start hoping again the next day.."
( From "Or Chadash"- A New Light)

The miracle of change

2010-12-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

The Hanukkah spirit got me thinking about things that represent our palpable miracles.
I was reading some inspirational quotes and came to realize that change can bring some amazing things.

Being able to modify is a difficult project which requires most times to act in ways we never thought we were capable of.
It is important to clarify that in my belief; alter comes only when you want to do it, there's no point in forcing someone to change when he doesn't feel the need. It only comes from within.

Becoming different requires some important ingredients: Patience, Perseverance and Positivism. Combining them together while not getting anxious at it is a vital part of accomplishing change. A nice challenge!

Human race feel comfortable in repeating patterns, they give us security, they make us feel rooted and confident yet changing means going to the unknown and it's common to resist it. The reward is immense when we are able to find new balance and harmony while discovering we can better ourselves.
I always say that it's important not to forget that small changes bring BIG miracles..
Change doesn't have to be vast; little acts consequently take us to many new modifications.
We all feel the need to be better, then we have to remember that life is dynamic and alters without rest. This is why it is significant to adapt to new circumstances and remember: Love is the main ingredient in life; plus : Nobody is perfect! :-)

Don’t be afraid, aspire to learn
Don’t worry, you will realize
The one who can touch
Has in its heart to comfort
Don’t be scared, days will come
The seasons will pass
You will see we will reach
the end of the road...
( From "Ze Harega-This is the moment )

Let's always Hope for Miracles

2010-11-30T15:33:00.000-08:00

We are almost ready; The Festival of Lights is around the corner!

The Holiday of Hanukkah is about light. The light that shone in the Holy Temple of ancient times as well as the light that dispels the darkness in what it can be a long,cold winter.
The eight days of Hanukkah also represent the light of hope, a reminder of Judah and the small band of Maccabees who gave the Jewish people hope-still strong today- that right can overcome might, as they fought against the harsh rule of King Antiochus and his much larger Syrian army.
Lights are shown throughout the Hanukkiah (Hanukkah Menorah), a reminder of the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days instead of only one, while the Maccabees were preparing new oil to bring light back to the holy Temple.

I love that this Holiday is about two sometimes under rated topics: Miracles and Hope.
I used to be one who didn't believe in miracles. In a world drown in technology; where millions of human beings suffer and even die from hunger, diseases, lack of access to health centers and education..how can we reach the concept of "miracle"?
Well..I don't know if this will be figurative for all; but I came to believe in miracles while being pregnant. I must say it may be something truly hard to understand unless having gone through it. Becoming aware that a new life starts developing where nothing existed before; to witness the growth and formation of it is just indescribable. Come to think of it: we are capable of bringing life to this world!
Life starts from the tiniest thing..and this is what I believe miracles are about.
A simple act can be as small in size as big in accomplishment. The minor deed can be a true miracle as it brings positive change with it.

Hope. It involves being optimistic, having faith in wishes being fulfilled.
Yet again; in this fast paced life; this is the word not to leave behind. Hope calls for bringing something we want to our minds, the first step into making it real.
When we are in a time of struggle,whether it is a personal one against life circumstances, disease or inner demons, or one for social justice; Hanukkah is one of many symbols that hope rises up in unforeseen places and in our darkest moments.

Wishing you much light in the upcoming days and rest of the year!

Sun, bring the sun
If my skies are full of clouds
I close my eyes
But the sunlight is within
( From Or-Light )

Message in a bottle ?

2010-11-29T16:20:00.000-08:00

Remember that song from "The Police"? I used to know it by heart; I am a big fan of Sting's work.
The idea of the message in a bottle made me think of how we, humans, long for communication and connection with others.
The beautifully portrayed survival of a man in the movie "Cast Away" clearly states that we need interchange in order to feel alive (even if it is with a basket ball).
We pretty much all know the above..the main effort is to find a way to communicate that is effective and positive for all of the involved.

One of the things I think it's vital to acknowledge is that many times we "imagine" what the other person is feeling or thinking. This mistake takes us to miss on reality. Good interchange implies being able to explain what everyone has inside. Personal feelings are not universal, we tend to forget that, don't we? :)
In addition, being clear at expressing what we need ,want and what our expectations are gives us a more mature rapport with our loved ones..even though I know it can quite a challenge.
Another angle not to forget is that sometimes, the other party we are trying to communicate with is not ready to listen or talk; he may still be upset, resented. When a person is open to exchange thoughts communication is more effective as well as having higher chances of being successful. We have to be patient even when we don't want to.

Added to the above mentioned; the tone in our voice can affect a conversation in a big way.
If we are calm our words become a link to our souls instead of being weapons that can hurt.

I feel that learning to listen with an open mind, a soft heart and no judgement can take us to better, happier relationships. Maybe we need to drop that bottle and say the message out loud.
( I am still learning :)
Happy Relationships!

There are words from inside the soul like your glances
there's a sound of comfort to words from your lips
if you truly want to touch me, put your head down (on me)
if you're ready to touch me by now, speak your heart.
(From the dance: "Dabri Elai- Talk To Me)

Family

2010-11-28T13:29:00.000-08:00

This weekend I've been reflecting about family.
We had several days of spending time together due to Thanksgiving and it certainly changed the pace of our hectic schedules.
As our baby has been fighting a cold, we stayed home,watched movies and went on short outings more than meeting friends.

I am always grateful to have a family. A wonderful husband and the sweetest baby girl.
I am lucky enough to have two wonderful parents whom I miss and wish lived closer; I have a sister and a brother who despite being far keep in touch often.
Don't you think my family is perfect..ha ha! far from that. We disagree most of the times; my mom suffers when my sister doesn't call; my brother complains when my mom can't keep secrets; my dad doesn't like it when my mom kvetches over his motorcycle trips with friends; I get upset when my brother has a bad attitude towards my mom...Does any of this happen to you? :-)

I am well aware that many of us don't have their families at all anymore. Sometimes they can even be in the same Country or State and yet feel like they are gone forever. Now we always have a chance to create our families among the people we love. I have members in my life I consider family even though they are not related by blood; they are well rooted in my heart.
At times it is easy to get stuck to the ideal of a family...We wish we had that perfect support group like the ones on TV shows..Wait..it's been long time since I watched a show with a "perfect family"! Maybe because there's none?

I am blessed to have created a family as well, only then to see how difficult it is to keep the balance between responsibilities, disagreement, likes, dislikes, kids ( and how to raise them), TV, food choices and did I mention love and passion? :)
I guess that phrase " You have to choose your battles" comes in handy. The problem is having it at hand when needed :)

All in all, life gives us all the opportunity to have a family and even more to create one around us.
We just need the main ingredient : LOVE (maybe some patience too) and one of the most challenging things: saying what we need; telling them how we feel; opening our hearts.
It is all worth it.

Give me time, reach out your hand to me
Until we will discover the country together
I know the road is still long
But your roots are already in me.
(from Ata Li Eretz- You Are My Country)

It is never too late.

2010-11-26T20:53:00.000-08:00

I got a note from a lady who turned 90 years old and decided to share some thoughts she learned throughout her life.
I thought they are the type of statements that are worth reading with a cup of tea (warm or iced depending on what part of the world you are reading from :)
I decided to translate some and then I got stuck with a particular one..

Life is not fair, but it's still good.
Life is too short to spend it hating someone.
Your job won't take care of you when you are sick; your family and friends will.Keep in touch.
Crying with someone is more comforting than doing it alone.
Make peace with your past so it won't ruin your present.
Breathe deeply, it calms your mind.
It's never too late to have a happy childhood.The second time depends only on you.
What other people think of you is none of your business.
Time heals almost everything.Give it time.
Don't take yourself too seriously, nobody else does.
Forgive everything to everyone.

And this is where I got stuck..forgive everything? to everyone? Come on! There are things that can't be forgiven.
I am one of those who had "unforgivable" situations in her life..only then to meet friends along the road who showed me I am not the only one.
What I guess I've learned is to look at the big picture. To face "north" and keep rolling. To turn the negative into positive and always learn from what happened; even if it feels it's very little.
Well; sometimes we need to repeat cycles until we are ready to jump into a new one..Have you ever found yourself asking: "Why does this always happen to me"?

I lived those moments of being too upset to come to my senses. I know it is not easy to get past them. Sometimes it is a matter of forgiving ourselves first ; making peace with whatever was so we are able to open new chapters in our lives.
Forgiving is a process and it is as healing as being able to say "I am sorry".
I love this piece from a "classic" in our folk dancing world that always talks to me..and some of my friends as well..

..Not to run away from my self
I have to be careful
To look forward
Not to get dragged
There are hard moments
The horizon is not clear
But I have to always believe
That not all is lost...
( From "Lakum Ve La'amod- To get up and stand)

Remember

2010-11-25T23:18:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago we were lucky enough to have yet another "Jewish Film Festival" in the Bay Area.
I love the opportunity to get in touch with international movies; they showcase different cultures then also different filming styles.
I come from a family of "movie lovers" and because Argentina looks up to the European traits; our movie theaters show quite a nice amount of Italian, French, German, Russian and East European movies among America. I grew up with all of those :)

I found out there was an Argentinean movie in the program.How exciting! "Anita"; the story of a girl with down syndrome whose mom dies at the bombing of the "AMIA" in 1994, the building that represented the heart of the Jewish Community in our country.
I bought tickets right away. My best friend from high school (whom I still miss and remember) passed away on that very sad event in our lives as she was working that morning. Her parents had deceased years before and she was living with her sister at that time.

The motion picture took me back not only in years but also to all those places I used to walk, pass by and share with friends and family...The AMIA was (and was rebuilt) near the JCC where I learned my first Israeli Folk Dance steps many years back..then also became a teacher and worked for the longest time.
Need I say watching the movie was an emotional trip? I realized that even though I've come to live without that special friendship my heart still hurts and my mind is far from understanding why there is so much hatred in our world.

The movie got me thinking about my friend's sister (whom I knew well in the past) ;where could she possibly be, what happened with her life..
It didn't take long to find someone with her name through Facebook. A few messages and a short while ago we reconnected.
Opening wounds it is not an easy labor; in the beginning it reminded me of how much I miss her yet also countless great times together. Losing someone who was truly in your heart is one of the most difficult things to get through. I am really grateful for re establishing communication along with finding out that the love for a sister/friend is what we have in common.

I hope this great love will help me forgive.
I hope she knows I think of her often and that she is alive within me.
And always remember.."Justice, Justice You Shall Pursue".

When you left, it was still raining
and I'm confused, I didn't understand..

How is it possible, how can it be
to suddenly go without a reason
the house is left as a violin without strings
like a redundant song ..
(From: Eich Efshar-How is it possible-)

This blog is dedicated to the memory of Viviana Casabe and the rest of the people we lost at the AMIA attack.