Just dance. It’ll be OK.

Who’s dancing with me tonight at Stamford Jazzercise?

I’m celebrating the third anniversary of the day I became certified to teach Jazzercise.

Me, teaching last August in our old space.

Many pairs of sneakers later I’m still having the time of my life, even if it’s getting harder and harder to put together just one set of favorite routines.

This remains the best avocation I could have, allowing me to stay fit, blow off steam and get paid to exercise.

Plus, it’s the ONLY place where people do what I tell them!

I know you parents of teenagers “feel me,” as Catherine would say. There’s something to be said about the power that comes with the use of a cordless mic.

😉

Seriously, though, there are rewards beyond the obvious. Where else would I be so lucky to cross paths with the most terrific people?

Just last week, one of my regular crew shared that she’d bought a smaller dress size for the first time in ages.

Another woman confided that she didn’t know what she’d do to keep her sanity if she couldn’t come to class.

Still another, who had been sidelined for medical reasons, returned to class, taking it at her own pace. She was beyond thrilled to be back in her spot and I was grateful to see her smiling face again.

I’ve witnessed all manner of life’s ups and downs from my perch on stage. I’ve also seen some of the best in humanity as our wonderful community of people has come together time and again in friendship and support for folks in our group who are sick, coping with loss, or simply trying to make it through another crazy day.

One hour at a time, it’s my job to give them the tools to stay fit and the space to temporarily set aside life’s many challenges.

They’re welcome to leave it all on the dance floor — just as I am.