I learned a lot, that goes without saying. Now that it's over and I've had a chance to take some personal inventory of my new skills I can honestly say that she has made me a much better dancer. Beyond the physical things that she taught us, balance, posture, poise, and even a little bit of pain, she taught me so much about the person I am on the inside, and how that affects everything around me on the outside. For those of you that have never met this wonderful woman in person, I can sum her up in one word - REAL. That's from the moment you step into the room with your classmates, to anytime you have one on one time with her, the woman says what she means and means what she says. I found it completely refreshing to be able to study with someone who truly cares about your personal journey, and takes interest in that journey, even if just for a minute or two at a time. Her words of encouragement were honest and genuine, and I found myself practicing extra hours just so I could give her more, since she gave all of us so much everytime. She taught me patience, and strength, and the ability to push myself ever forward, even through some uncomfortable obstacles. She taught us with humor, compassion, and an ever present passion for life and this art form. Her views on feminine empowerment hit so close to home, I found myself reading her "VIsion" over and over, and nearly every time I did, I ended up in tears. The most important thing I learned was that there is room for everyone in this dance, there is room for the traditional, the not so traditional, and everyone in between. It's not the danceform that sets limits, it's small minded people. True sisterhood exists within us all. We have the power to reach out to our communities and make real lasting friendships and have all kinds of fun while we do it. So I thank you deeply from the bottom of my dirty callused feet, for coming here and making our world a whole lot more beautiful.
I LOVE YOU ANSUYA!!!!