Inside the crowded hallways of my high school, students move from one class to the
next as if choreographed. As a dancer, I sense the different tempos, beats, and emotions
projected as they move. I notice two categories: wanderers and trekkers. Wanderers
shuffle along, faces unemotional, holding onto the walls. Trekkers, like myself, move briskly
toward their goals, heads held high, smiling as they greet oncoming traffic. This second
group moves with precision, dancing a technically “perfect” routine, letting emotion take
over their bodies as they give a breath-taking performance. They don’t treat life as a dress
rehearsal. They make every moment count; giving their all and having no regrets.
As a dancer, I spend more time in the studio than on the stage in the spotlight, but in
both places I dance with the same intensity. It’s in practice where I overcome unpointed
toes and unsynchronized rythems. I use every second to improve and try new techniques. I
might fall down, but a bandage (sometimes a pack of frozen peas) gets me back on my feet.
Even if perfection eludes me, I dance each routine to the fullest, facing the oncoming lights.
Nailing a dance feels great, but when I look back on my life I will remember the dances that
made me smile, the moments that let me break free and have fun.
I use every moment that I’m not dancing to master academic material… and I mean
every moment; even in the shower. I tape review material to the glass shower door to
memorize. I’ve learned some very important material while showering, from every United
States president to all the capitals and countries in Europe. Every moment counts and none
should be wasted. My head doesn’t touch my pillow until my mind has mastered the last
hand-made flash card. If I fell asleep unprepared, I’d have nightmares of the test running
through my mind all night long. I only have 24 hours in a day and I use them wisely.
Out of the 24 hours, 1,440 minutes, 86,400 seconds, it’s the tiny moments that
count. I make sure to save time for friendship in my busy schedule. I bring my friends
cookies and balloons before a big game to wish them luck. I write motivational notes to
younger girls on my dance team before performing on the field. Simple thoughfulness can
make someone’s day. The bear hug I give my best friend will be cherished forever. This is
what I do with my spare moments; build bonds of friendship. And these moments are my
absolute favorite.
I never want to regret what I didn’t try. I strive to live life to the fullest; giving 100%
to keep life challenging. There is not one moment when I’m not trying my best. I make each
one count through pursuing my passions, preparing for the future and building
relationships to last a lifetime. Every moment, no matter how big or small, counts and
makes me, me.