Every Thursday for the past few weeks, my friend Lauren and I have been attending the free summer music events hosted by the city with our other friends
We've established a routine—or rather, she's created one for us. The day before, she always texts to remind me about the event and asks the same question: "Shall I pick you up or meet at the location?" It's amusing that she needs to remind me to attend the show when I live just 3 minutes away, and she has to drive 15 minutes to get there. But that's Lauren for you—she's always on the lookout for fun: Shakespearean plays in Stratford, wine tastings in Niagara, or even weekends at spas where you can unwind in a plush robe. She'll even casually mention she's been out of town, staying in a lakeside cottage with friends.
I admire her zest for life, her ability to create joy and make the most of every opportunity. After last Thursday's dance event, my admiration for her skyrocketed. Unlike previous times when she picked me up, that day we agreed I'd meet her at the venue. When I arrived, she had reserved a front-row spot for us right in front of the musicians, just steps away from the open dance floor.
As we embraced, I inquired about her well-being and her husband, who has been unwell in recent months. She mentioned things weren't great and they had a doctor's appointment the next day to address another health issue that had arisen. Concerned, I wanted to know more. She spoke about how rapidly things had changed since we last spoke, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of sadness cross her face. However, it quickly vanished as the loud music from the band reached us. I can't recall the song they were playing, but it was one of those that compelled everyone to their feet. Off Lauren went, dragging me onto the dance floor with her.
As we waltzed onto the floor, it struck me—this is why I admire Lauren so much. She understands that life is about moments, and one must seize each moment fully, without letting worries about the future mar the present. Here was a woman who could have been at home consumed with worry, resigned to her circumstances, letting every moment be overshadowed by the challenges her husband's health was facing. Instead, she chose to infuse her day with happiness and joie de vivre, despite what the next moment might bring.
I spent most of the evening watching Lauren dance. There was no hint of the burdens she carried or the challenges awaiting her the next day. She was simply a dancing queen in her element—moving gracefully to the music, matching its tempo, swaying to the beat, hips swaying, hands raised in the air countless times, lost in the rhythm. She danced through every song the band played, sitting down only once or twice to rest her feet. Watching her move to the music was a delight, and her attitude that day reminded me that life is what we make of it. Through ups and downs, as Lee Ann Womack sings, "when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance."
So here's to dancing through life's highs and lows, raising our hands in celebration despite it all. Cheers!
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