Learning to Dance

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It has been almost a week since i last shared and in some ways the time has flown by, while in other ways it seems to be at a standstill. Many lessons are still being learned by this student who continues to watch the dancefloor but is starting to tap her toes. The music sounds so sweet and the One inviting me to dance is so patient and loving. Mixed in with the music i hear the prayers and encouraging words of friends, now i am swaying to the rythm. From behind me, somewhere in the shadows, comes another familiar voice. It is the one that says, "You can't dance! Your legs are too weak and your feet are like clay. Come back to this wall where no one will see you, it is where you need to stay!". For a moment i stand frozen, paralyzed by the harshness of the voice and the coldness of those words. I am embarassed and feel so foolish. Then i notice others standing around me. I expect to hear jeers and see condenscention in their eyes. My eyes are on the floor. Then i hear a cheer. One voice at first and then it is joined by more voices...and they are cheering for me! "Don't listen to the lies," they say, "but look to the One who is inviting you to the dance!". It is His voice i hear as i turn as i turn to look into His eyes. There are tears in His eyes just as there are in mine. His voice is loving but firm, "Get up and dance, child, this is the song i created for you. Just take my hand and follow my lead. I love you and I want to see you dance!". At first i feel awkward and clumsy but i am strengthened by His embrace. The Lord of the dance has me in His arms and this is where i want to stay.