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Day 64 Grateful for Dance and Joyful People
Lisa Ray Kappell
/ Categories: Family and Faith

Day 64 Grateful for Dance and Joyful People

Day 64 of a Grateful Heart..you don't have to be around my family long, to know that one of our all time favorite movies is 'The Greatest Showman'. Last night, however, as I sat at Nazareth College Art Center with my "Rochester family", the Richars, I quickly realized I was amidst "The Greatest Show". My dear friend, Diane Sturmer invited our family to this event weeks ago. It's called the Heart of Dance, yes it surely is!

My kids love to dance and perform. I knew they would enjoy the show. I honestly had NO IDEA the impact however, it would have on me.. WOW.  As the curtains opened last night, a group of people, both in and out of wheelchairs entered the stage. One of my daughter's favorite songs, "This is Me" from 'The Greatest Showman' started to play. It was breathtaking. As they sang, "But I won't let them break me down to dust, I know that there's a place for us, for we are GLORIOUS. And I'm marching on to the beat I drum. I'm not scared to be seen, I make no apologies, this is me." I felt a tear roll down my cheek. I could learn a lot from everyone on that stage. I have sometimes found myself engrossed in my own insecurities and imperfections. But as I watched, I saw the beauty of people that we're secure enough to be on that stage and they had truly found their place, their purpose. The joy on their faces brought joy to mine and those in the audience. Yes! To bring joy to others, quite possibly the greatest purpose and gift of all. "They are GLORIOUS!", I thought to myself. 

My beautiful friend, Diane started Heart of Dance when her friend, Nancy Craig could not speak but signed the word "dance" to her. Diane asked her if that meant she wanted to dance more and she responded with a hearty "yes". That was 15 years ago! That journey is what brought that beautiful production into place last night. Their practices start and end with a prayer. 

Diane sees her friend, Nancy and others with mental and physical challenges, not as DISabled but VERY able! This show demonstrated the love our God gives us everyday.  He loves us all the same..gracefully broken, arms wide open as we go along in our journey to find our place. Where is your place? Mine is with Jesus. I was inspired and lifted up as I left. The Heart of Dance is supported by Heritage Christian Services and other sponsors.. I am so grateful, what a glorious experience!

Love, 

Lisa Ray 

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