avatarSharon's Writerly Musings

Summary

A mother humorously reflects on her children's embarrassment over her dancing, despite her confidence in her rhythm and musical taste, which includes a diverse range of genres from Reggae to Afrobeats.

Abstract

The author, Sharon Mitchell, discusses the amusing dynamic between her and her children when she dances. Despite being a skilled dancer and having a rich music collection, her children often react with embarrassment or ask her to stop. Mitchell proudly recounts her and her husband's ability to throw a great dance party and their influence on their children's musical exposure. She contrasts her children's reactions with her own fond memories of watching her mother dance to old-school Reggae. The article emphasizes the joy dancing brings to the author, who encourages others to embrace their love for dance regardless of their children's opinions. Mitchell also shares her perspective on contemporary music and highlights the intergenerational enjoyment of dance through social media platforms like TikTok.

Opinions

  • The author is confident in her dancing abilities and enjoys it despite her children's reactions.
  • She believes in the cultural and familial importance of exposing children to a wide range of music.
  • Mitchell has a positive outlook on the impact of music and dance in her life, associating it with joy and cultural appreciation.
  • She expresses a mixed opinion on current music trends, appreciating some artists while questioning others.
  • The author encourages readers to continue dancing and finding joy in it, regardless of their age or their children's teasing.
  • She sees dancing as a way to connect with her youth and a form of stress relief.
  • Mitchell appreciates the way social media can bridge generational gaps through shared dance and music experiences.

Moms, Music and Dancing

What is it about seeing us twirl that makes some young folks cringe?

Photo by Junior REIS on Unsplash

The last time I checked, I didn’t have two left feet. Yet, when I dance, my kids occasionally give me the “Bombastic Side Eye” or try to pin me down.

“Mom. Please. Stop.”

I will gladly toot my own horn. I am a great dancer. No one could ever accuse me of mirroring Elaine from that episode of Seinfeld. (Not familiar? Please look up “Elaine, Seinfeld, Dancing” on YouTube!)

My hubby and I draw attention whenever we hit the floor, in a good way! We have rhythm, a wonderful, eclectic music collection, and can easily throw a great dance party.

So why won’t my boys let me dance in peace?

Photo by Sarah Louise Kinsella on Unsplash

Boogie- Woogie

I don’t remember acting that way towards my own mom. I enjoyed watching her dance because it didn’t happen often, and it was always to some form of old-school Reggae. Since I grew up immersed in all things Jamaican, it gave me a deeper appreciation for the music of my culture.

My boys wouldn’t be so musically inclined if it wasn’t for my husband and me. (Invisible pat on the back) They’ve been exposed to many forms of good music. One of my 14-year-old’s favorite songs is Bill Withers’ Heartbreak Road LOL!

My older boys developed an appreciation for alternative and rock when we used to blast Incubus, Lenny Kravitz, and Hoobastank in our car. Plus, recite all the lyrics to Slick Rick’s Children’s Story!

Photo by Mohammad Metri on Unsplash

What am I listening to?

My point of view when it comes to today’s music is 70/30. Some musicians I enjoy entirely, and others leave me perplexed. There’s music that will always get me on my feet, e.g., Michael Jackson (RIP), Stevie Wonder, Beyonce, and others won’t get the time of day.

A mom on TikTok currently does all the dances from my youth and even has dance battles with her daughter. I love watching both the younger and older folks “getting it in” with the insane Afrobeats that are so popular.

Photo by Paul Zoetemeijer on Unsplash

Dancing has always brought me joy and takes me back to my twenties when my biggest worries were the rent, light bill, and which new restaurant to check out next!

So, if your kiddos try to snuff out your joy when you dance, ignore them! Grab your partner or hug yourself and dance to your heart’s content. I know I will.

Until next time, twinkle toes!

Sharon-

Thanks for taking the time to read my piece! If you are interested, I invite you to check these out!

Sharon Mitchell is from Richmond, Virginia, but was born and raised in The Big Apple. She’s a freelance creative writer actively working towards publishing her first novel.

Writing
Moms
Life Lessons
Dancing
Middle Pause
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