It was a beautiful April weekend, my wife and I headed to Myrtle Beach, the heart of Carolina Shag, with high hopes for a fun-filled few days of dancing during the SOS Spring Safari. However, our first night out felt strangely… off.
As we walked into the familiar venue, greeted by friendly faces, a sense of disconnect washed over me. It felt like these weren't quite "my people" that night. Neither of us could quite settle into the music, our steps felt clumsy, and the usual joy of the dance floor eluded us. I found myself wondering, "What was going on?"
Initially, I pondered several possibilities. Was it the intentional choice to abstain from alcohol, something I've been prioritizing lately? Could it be a subtle effect of a new medication? Or perhaps just an off night?
But then, a crucial realization hit me: I was tired. Really tired. We had pushed ourselves before heading out, and exhaustion can cast a shadow over even the most beloved activities. Sometimes, "it ain't them, it's you," as the saying goes.
back out, this time with friends experiencing their very first SOS (Society of Stranders) event in North Myrtle Beach. The energy was infectious! We danced across five floors in three different venues, each with its own unique vibe.
The warmth of the Shag community truly shone through. We ran into friends from the Competitive Shag Association who greeted us with open arms and encouraged us to join them on the dance floor. To our delight, we even received applause and positive comments from onlookers after several dances. It was incredibly refreshing and reignited our passion for teaching and encouraging others in their own dance journeys.
The contrast between Friday and Saturday was stark. It served as a powerful reminder that our own well-being significantly impacts our experiences. When we're rested and feeling good, we're more open to connection, more in tune with the music, and better able to share our joy with others.
This weekend also subtly underscored the importance of finding your tribe. While Myrtle Beach holds a special place for Shag, a recent realization about differing values within one particular crowd has us considering expanding our dance horizons northward, towards the welcoming Philly Bop community we've begun to connect with.
Ultimately, this trip was a valuable lesson in self-awareness, the power of rest, and the enduring joy of a supportive dance community. From feeling disconnected to dancing on air, it was a weekend of contrasts that ultimately left us feeling grateful and energized for the dance adventures ahead.
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