The Search for Wisdom

How do we bring change in the street dance community? Can we avoid the mistakes of the past and build on the wisdom of our predecessors? Wisdom is what we need. We're desperate for it. Only with wisdom can we start to build a different future for the next generation of dancers.

Why is wisdom important? The young often rail against their elders about inflexibility, outdated perspectives, and unfair prejudice. The elders complain that the youngbloods lack maturity, experience, and thoughtfulness. We see these patterns in other communities besides dance. At the heart of this conflict is a breakdown in communication. Whatever side you're on, it's easy to only look through your own lens. And in doing so, we can jump to hasty conclusions, form judgements, and act on them without considering the validity of others' perspectives.

Street dance is nearly over thirty years old now. Enough time has passed where there are at least three generations intermingling. You could call them the old school, the middle school, and the new school. With so many people involved, it's surprising that we're still making the same mistakes as thirty years ago. Jams are still unorganized and run off schedule. Money is a corrupting factor that divides former friends. And nasty gossip ruins the feel-good vibes of our dance.

We need wise leaders to step forward. In each of our communities, there is a desperate need for men and women, regardless of age and generation, to start shepherding the masses. These leaders were meant to influence, coach, educate, and mentor the unwieldy souls in our dance community. If you feel you're heart stirring, if you feel a burden for our fellow brothers and sisters in the dance community; then you have something to offer. Don't let anyone else tell you otherwise.

Can we stop asking for change and start thinking about how to be part of the solution? If each of us is gifted uniquely with distinct talents, then it's possible that we can apply them to influence our dance community in positive ways. Yes, many of us are lazy. Or we're intimidated to take on risk. But there is a great need for wisdom right now. That kind of wisdom can bring an inner peace to each of our souls, which is deeply longed for if we're honest with ourselves.

Leaders, please stand up and dream big. You have the power to bring change.