Rite of Springing

I was very moved by Jonathan Still's reaction to a blog entry I wrote almost two years ago (which may even have been the first posting on this blog).

I hadn't read it for a while and was surprised by its emotional content. There are a few things I'd add. I continue to think theologically about class; almost as if the barre, and, particularly, the first deep plies, are the Mass's penitential rite ("for what we have done, and what we have failed to do"). It's as if the barre is a confessional scrutiny of the body - and a recognition that there are mistakes I am fated to repeat and repeat.

The other thing I'd add is how wonderful it is when there is an accompanist in class. Most of my teachers have to work with CDs - it's distracting for them. But when, once a week, I go to the RAD and Jonathan's colleague Mark is there, he absolutely - and selflessly - transforms the experience. He's not bored by the class - and his intelligence at the keyboard lifts me when I might otherwise sag. He's vital to the work.

All of which is a reminder to me to sponsor Jonathan's swim for Marie Curie Cancer Care.