Courage Rewarded

Sunshine has really dug deep within herself to discover Courage this year and I think she is delighted with the rewards. Last year she begged to begin art classes. She knew the teacher and had been going to the place for years for Firstborn's lessons, so it seemed like it would be a smooth and gentle entry into the world of outside activities. Wrong. She did fine until the teacher spoke to her and then we ended up leaving with her wailing, "I hate art!"

So after she turned six, nearly one year ago, I was skeptical but outwardly cheerful and encouraging when she was begging for ballet lessons. I found a studio that met all of my criterion (very low-key, modest, small classes, affordable, warm but highly qualified instructor, classic technique and tasteful music) and said a prayer that Sunshine would find her Courage. The first class she sat watching, glued to me and with tears filling her eyes. Second class started out the same, but I finally told her I was leaving and if she followed me, we would not return. Miracle of miracles: she stayed and was persuaded to join the girls on the floor. And then she discovered that deep truth: courage is rewarded, in one way or another. In this case, she found that she loves ballet class and since that wonderful day, she has found that she loves art lessons as well.

Last week the parents of the five girls in ballet class were invited in for a little in-class presentation. I prayed that Sunshine would hold on to that Courage and let her light shine. Shine she did; she performed with grace and joie de vivre. One week later, the Professor and I determined, with her hesitant consent, that Sunshine would make her musical debut at a little recital to be held in our home. The morning of the performance she was crying at the thought of playing in front of everyone. I asked her, "Do you really want to perform tonight?" Through the quivering lips and scared little eyes came a determined and confident, "Yes, but I am scared." I reminded her of the courage she had displayed during the past year and how it had rewarded her.

That night, she looked over at me just before it was her turn to perform and mouthed, "I don't want to do it!" I nodded and smiled, mouthing in reply, "You do want to do it!" And she did it. She did it beautifully. She did it as if performing was part of her being. And, being born of two performers, it likely is.

Later that night, the Professor went to tuck Sunshine into bed. She pulled him close and whispered into his ear, "You know, I hate to admit it, but I really like performing in recitals!"

Ballet Debut: December 11, 2006
Music Debut: December 18, 2006