You can't replace a great instructor, but that's ok!
It's happened a few times in the 4 plus years I've had Zumba in my life. Great instructors leave. It's not that they have "left" their classes. It's more life happens.
I think most people know I've been an instructor now since September. Even others may know I recently took on a Friday morning class at Dance Theater South when a great instructor, Leslie Anderson, stopped teaching Zumba classes. It was such an honor to be entrusted with her class, but I have to admit, the whole class shared in my sadness that first week when we knew she wasn't up front.
Let's face it. I'm not short, blonde or spunky. And my name is not Leslie. But I soon realized that we would be ok. For Zumba is about more than just great instructors. It's about community. There are many examples I could give of where I have seen this community at work but I will leave you with a few of my favorites.
- When someone is in need a Zumba sister (or brother) is there to lend a hand. Recently a person who did the child care for a few weeks had an urgent family situation and a Zumba friend helped to coordinate people to watch her own children so she could visit the hospital.
- When we have needed child care for parents to attend class, a Zumba sister (and maybe others) stepped in to watch the children so class could go on.
- When our favorite instructor moved on, a Zumba sister took charge of making sure the transition regarding punch cards and other items were all taken care of.
- When we were hoping people would continue to come to class, a few Zumba sisters cheered on us instructors and encouraged their friends to come to class and have fun anyways.
- When I personally worried about bringing enough energy to the class, several Zumba sisters jumped, hollered and moved around the room.
You see, we don't just go to Zumba class to get a fun workout (although that is a bonus). We dine with these people, attend church with these people and simply enjoy being around one another. After all, often motivation comes from surrounding yourself with other positive people.
So while I will take today off from Zumba class, I'm excited to shake with these ladies tomorrow!
