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(Originally published in American Square Dance Magazine in 1995) Each month produces yet another round of negative articles on the tragic decline of Square Dancing. As we approach the beginning of another season of recruiting and classes, let's focus on the positive aspects of what square dancing offers to ourselves and our new members. Universal Language - Can you think of any other language where, after mastering about 70 words and phrases, you can get around freely in Japan, Germany, Netherlands, and all other countries where Square Dance is 'spoken'?? Physical and Psychological Benefits - How many times do you feel BAD after a night of square dancing? Other than a case of tired feet, do you feel depressed after a 10 hour State or Regional Festival?? Very often I've walked into the dance hall feeling tired and run down from a hectic day on the job. By the time the dancing's over, my outlook has improved 100% and I've got more pep than I know what to do with!! The few times I've left a hall feeling bad are the same nights when I went in feeling bad (coming down with a cold or getting over one)! Why did I go in the first place? To spend some time with my fellow club members/friends! Mental Gymnastics - The Callerlab Programs offer as much exercise for the mind as they do for the body. Progressing from Mainstream and Plus through Advanced and onto Challenge, dancers are given more calls, formations, and concepts to master. Each person is able to choose the program which most closely fits his or her definition of fun. I know people who have been happy dancing Mainstream and Plus for years and years and who have no desire to move on to other programs. I also know people who dance C3B three years after their beginner lessons (and are anxious to learn C4!!). Social Benefits - Square Dancing has brought me friends from all over the continent. As I travel from festival to festival, I run into old friends and I meet new friends. Very often, I am greeted by people who see my club shirt and introduce themselves as someone who has danced with fellow club members at other conventions and festivals!! Does Square Dancing have problems? Of course it does. Any activity that involves more than one person at a time is open to differences of opinion and Square Dancing is no different. But Square Dancing's problems are relatively minor. (I'm planning another article to address some of these minor problems.) The bottom line, the point we must sell to our audience is this: Square Dancing offers a wholesome, healthy form of recreation which is enjoyed by thousands and thousands of nice people all across the world. If we are successful in selling that message, I believe that the biggest problem Square Dancing will have is finding enough dance space to hold all the new converts we've brought into the activity!! Happy Dancing. |
