Changing Lives through Dancing by David Woodbury
Arthur Murray Santa Monica
It’s Thanksgiving Week or 2023! Wow, I am ever thankful for my dancing and for my many years with Arthur Murray!
Why am I thankful?
First, I found my life’s work at 18 as a student, then pro at 19. I have stayed with Arthur Murray for 47 years now and I still love dancing, love our leaders at Arthur Murray International, and love the wonderful staff and students I have known over the years.
Second, dancing has guided me through the roughest times of my life. From the loss of both parents, brother, and my life partner, to living through covid as a studio owner. Arthur Murray was always the Balm in Gilead for me.
Third, the actual dancing has given me health and agility throughout my whole life. Even now after several surgeries and illnesses, I can still dance my heart out and I still have my zest and skill for dancing. I know that as long as I continue dance, I will be able to walk and move easily.
Fourth, the friends I have made have been lifetime friendships. I just recently attended an event where I knew five people for 45 of my 47 years. We were all just kids again when we met. We laughed, cried, hugged and shared so many memories of the years gone by. I love them and they are my forever friends.
Fifth, the opportunities give to me have been continuous and endless. From dancing on national television, to speaking to hundreds of people, to dancing on the fashion runway, traveling and dancing around the world, to being able to own my own dance studio. Dancing has given me a full and rich life. I am thankful and I continue to welcome new adventures and challenges to grow.
Some people in life have many many jobs and careers. I have lived one lifestyle of ballroom dancing that has given me many careers through the many facets of dancing. I’ve gone from having articles published to competing on the professional dance floor. Dancing has been and continues to be a fulfilling life for me. And guess what, there is a place for the “seasoned” dancer. It happens we senior coaches know a thing or two about dancing and we still have some good coaching and dancing inside of us!
Yes, I am thankful this Thanksgiving 2023. Happy Holiday to you and your family!
Thanks for reading,
David Woodbury