If you look up the word 'feminine' in the dictionary, you will find a
picture of Shanaya. I never knew a child could come out of the womb
that way. Shanaya is our little singing canary and loves all things
foofy, frilly, and lacy. Accessories are never used sparingly with
her either. She even wears necklaces in her hair, hanging from her
up-do's! She adores wearing dresses and was so excited when I bought
her different colored leggings to match her dresses. Oh, and shoes.
Can't forget that. She loves shoes!
Four-year old Shanaya loves all things domestic as well. Dishes,
cooking, cleaning, are pure joy to her. I'm jealous. She loves her
babies. She was born to mother her dolls. It was really eye opening
to witness her need to do this.
But perhaps the most remarkable thing to experience about her is how
much passion she has for dance, particularly ballet. A couple of months ago, Jonalyn our nanny began helping Shanaya learn some ballet moves. With Jonalyn's experience with ballet, combined with her expertise in physical therapy, and her loving arms and heart she has helped Shanaya's dance dream to come to life. She even practices her pliés in the shower!
I got to thinking about how Shanaya's body is certainly not typical
of a dancer, as she cannot even walk on her own. She cannot get off
the floor if she is sitting or laying. She needs so much physical
help to move, yet the passion for dance transforms her body. I am in
awe when I watch her dance, as she has so much grace and poise, and
her face radiates pure joy.
As I followed this thought, I reflected on my God given desires, and
wondered if I am realizing them, or even acknowledging them at all.
Am I allowing the passions I have for various interest to transform
me in spite of all my imperfections, and inabilities? Am I even
refraining from pursuing my interests and passions because of this?
Thoughts such as "Oh, I could never do that", or "I am not good
enough to do that" perhaps inhabits more of my thoughts than I care
to admit.
I am so inspired by Shanaya and her dancing, in spite of a body that
"can't" or "shouldn't", she does - and so beautifully. May I learn to
follow the dance of my heart as Shanaya does, and trust God to give
me the grace, poise, joy, and to use me, just as I am.
Written by Shanaya's Mom, Karen M.
