Pointes and Perspective #45 Your One Wild And Precious Life

Your One Wild And Precious Life

Last week in one of my Ballet classes, we set aside the barre and the music for something different - a conversation. Our class took time to pause, reflect, and write about why we are here. Why does each student choose to come to dance class? The goal was to open up honestly, explore individual motivation, and find shared purpose and growth as a group.

Each student shared their reason for coming to dance. I was happy to learn that everyone wanted to be there. No one was being pushed by a parent, though only a few plan to continue with dance beyond high school. Some hope to minor in dance, or join a college dance team. Others simply love the artform or the fitness it brings. And yet others attend to be with friends, as a distraction or escape.

I reminded them that whatever the reason, showing up matters, no matter what their goals are. Working hard each class builds more than just strong muscles. It builds character, resilience, confidence, and fitness. It feels good to give your all, to know that you’ve met yourself fully in the work. I reminded them that effort always feels better than doing something halfway, and that discipline and presence are life skills, not just dance skills.

But as our conversation deepened, it also got real. A few students began to vent, about feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or frustrated. Some said the level felt too difficult, wondering why teachers train them as if they were future professionals. I explained that thorough training benefits everyone. If you’re going to learn something, why not learn it well? The pride that comes from mastering something challenging is worth every ounce of effort.

Others brought up frustrations about classes that felt disorganized or lacked respect. Students talking over the teacher, sitting on the floor, chaos taking over the space. I shared that not every teacher, director, or boss you meet in life will be your “cup of tea.” But professionalism means showing respect anyway, learning what you can, adapting, and still doing your best. These moments are practice for real life, not just for the stage.

Then we talked about something deeper. We talked about the powerful truth that they are being watched by the next generation. Younger dancers look up to them, noticing their effort, their attitude, and the example they set. I reminded them that influencing others, especially those who are just beginning, is both a great responsibility and one of the greatest honors we can have. Every time they walk into the studio, they have the chance to inspire someone simply by how they work, how they carry themselves, and how they treat others.

At the end, the students were very kind, saying they appreciate that I meet them where they are and teach firmly but with kindness. They said they feel supported in my class, and I was deeply touched by that. But I reminded them that in life, only a handful of people will truly cheer you on. Perhaps your parents, your closest friend, or a few teachers. Beyond that, you must learn to inspire yourself.

That was the real heart of our discussion -

You have to inspire yourself.

You have to decide that you will grow, even when it’s hard.

You have to show up fully, not halfway.

Stop rolling your eyes at the challenge. Stop doubting yourself or blaming the environment. Whether life hands you a joyful, messy, or difficult moment, use it for your development.

Because this is your class.

This is your life.

This is your chance to build something real.

And so, the moral of our “Why Are We Here” conversation, came down to this simple truth. If you’re going to show up, then show up. Not halfway, but fully, presently, and with purpose. Because no one else can dance your dance for you.

Build yourself.

Build your character.

Dance fully.

Savor every moment.

As Mary Oliver once wrote, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”