Finding my way

After Michael passed away, I found myself with a painful amount of time and space I didn’t know how to fill. I had spent so long caring for him and loving him through every moment…that when he was gone, the silence in my home was deafening. The grief was heavy, and I needed something anything to keep me from feeling swallowed by the stillness.

That’s when I found ballroom dancing. There was a studio close to home offering beginner lessons, and something in me said just try. So I did. What started as a way to pass time became a lifeline—an outlet for my grief, my heart, my body, and my soul. It gave me rhythm when my world felt chaotic. It gave me movement when I felt frozen. It gave me community when I felt alone.

Fast forward to now. I just competed in an dance competition in Spain.  I stepped WAY outside my comfort zone, and honestly, I still can’t believe I did it. I was so nervous, but I had the most incredible instructor and team behind me, cheering me on every step of the way.

I was honored to place in Rhythm Dance and Smooth for both the Newcomer and Beginner categories (in my age group).  I truly don’t even know how it happened—but I’m so grateful. I can’t express how much this experience has encouraged me to keep trying new things and to keep stepping outside my comfort zone, even when it’s scary.

Our studio also won two major awards—Top Teacher and Top Studio! 

One of the most emotional moments came while watching the professional dancers perform. The beauty and emotion in their movements reminded me so much of Michael. He would have been so proud. I felt him with me in those moments…his spirit dancing beside me, cheering me on, just like always.

This journey has reminded me that healing doesn’t mean forgetting…it means choosing to live boldly, even in the ache. And dancing? Dancing is how I’ve learned to breathe again.

To anyone navigating grief: there is light ahead. Sometimes it shows up in the most unexpected places…like a pair of dance shoes and a song that moves your soul.

#GriefAndGrace #BallroomDancingThroughTheDarkness #CrownCupSpain #NewBeginnings #MichaelAlwaysWithMe