Authentic exchanges_ Its power_ Its complexity

Everything is moving so quickly. I lie here in bed collecting my thoughts, reflecting on the events that have been taking place. There is a great sense of happening rushing over me. I’ve discovered that whether or not you are aware of these happenings, it happens anyways. I realize that no matter how much I analyze it, these experiences have deeply affected the way I think about culture, tradition, dance, and the way I view my own path in serving humanity. It has truly been an exchange in that I have been just as deeply impacted as much as we might be impacting those participating in these workshops, these laboratories of learning.

I’m loving the curiosity from both cultures of “the other,” and how quickly your whole idea, definition, or stereotype of “the other” is instantly shattered when you share a simple smile, when you watch a young person express their joy through movement, or when you acknowledge that you have similar passions. I’m impressed by the Nepali students’ courage and confidence. So far, in these workshops, willingness, openness, and eagerness mixed with enthusiasm, has been the key ingredient for providing a quality experience that we all can receive value from. I’ve observed a hunger from the students to learn new things, and become competent in unfamiliar styles, and new ways of thinking about movement.

 It’s so cool to have returning students. Two participants in particular from a workshop on Monday, showed up at the Nepal Music Center on Tuesday (Genisha and Bishal) to dance with us again. They both are incredible Hip Hop dancers. I was thrilled to see that Spectrum Dance Theater had such an impact on them, that they came back to have another experience. It was awesome to see familiar faces, and to make new friends half way around the world.

 This experience has been HUGE, and any other synonym with HUGE. It’s been so dense and potent in it’s substance. It requires a tremendous amount of focus and stamina. I hope that we keep working hard and build from each workshop, as we get clearer and clearer about the approach. Believe it or not we are learning about each other, the uniqueness of our own individuality, and the differences in culture and tradition. Most importantly, I hope we have fun while we move forward.

 Being in Nepal, my senses are being challenged. I’m extremely unfamiliar with the dense atmosphere when inhaling the thick polluted air. I’ve notice my body clinch up when driving in close proximity to the vehicles. I’ve seen cows and monkeys walking down the street. I’ve noticed new sounds, one being the crows, and how different it is from the ones in America. Even the sunrise captivated me, providing a soothing energy I have yet to receive anywhere else in the world.

 I’m curious and excited for what’s to come.