Each year we try and set time aside around Thanksgiving or Christmas to dance at nursing homes, assisted living centers and senior apartment complexes. We headed out on Friday, December 16th with 14 dancers and put our Christmas Show to the test!
Wow, what fun we had. Each place had it’s own personality and each show took on it’s own character as we made our way through 3 facilities! We had a few dancers who had never done the St. Patrick’s day Blitz, let alone performed in a Elderly care facility. It really challenged them and boy, did they shine! Whether it is a small dance floor, slippy dance floor, very warm room, or even emergencies while performing, dancing in nursing homes are not boring!!
The younger siblings of the dancers worked on Christmas pins and magnets to give away while we toured. The dancers loved this part as well. Each resident we visited also got a pin or magnet to keep.
After each place, I am always brought to a new understanding of how life changes for so many as we grow older. I am burdened again that we need to do more visiting in these
places, for there are many who are so lonely. It was such a blessing to see those folks smile, clap and give us praise; not because we need the praise, but that we blessed them enough to praise us.
In each place we shared the traditions of Christmas in Ireland through dance, song and word. Many learned some things and for many memories of their childhoods were brought back, because their traditions were similar.
We also did two extra things on Friday. Most of the group sang for our local allergist:
Dr. Dubravec and his office. Some of the dancers are in a choir and so were invited to sing, so we began there first. Throughout the day, we sang for the different homes as well and by the end of the day, all the children sang! They just couldn’t help wanting to share their joy with those before them.
The second thing we did was dance for a local Cadillac business. We just showed up and danced in the middle of the office. The employees so enjoyed their break. It has been super for the dancers to realize they can share their dances with anyone at anytime!
Well, that was quite a day, but so worth the exhaustion! I thank God, for giving us the inspiration to share, energy to dance, and the His Love in our hearts to love those who so need love at this time!