The Night I Didn't Learn How to Belly Dance
Posted: Sunday, December 23, 2007
by Teresa Ortiz
Freelance writer/Speaker
It happened in a flash - no hope of salvation. There I was, on the dance floor– for the entire world to see. (Okay, so not the entire world, but maybe the first 250.)
It all started when my husband (he was my boyfriend at the time), and I went to our dear friends' engagement party. This wasn't just your ordinary engagement party, oh no – it was an Egyptian engagement party. The ball room was grand; beautifully decorated, complete with a spot-lighted pedestal, Egyptian music and Belly Dancers.
We were dressed for the occasion – Art, in his black slacks and white button down shirt, looking as good as ever, and me, I was wearing a beautiful white button down dress with blue orchids down the front.
I was awed by the music and the dancing – what a magical night, and this is not even the wedding!
As the night went on, I was entranced by the music- I was sitting in my chair –dancing away, oblivious to the spotlight that we had been under for the last two hours.
Suddenly, from across the room – this amazingly tall, dark and handsome Egyptian man walked toward me with his hand held straight to mine. (Sorry honey – I did leave the party with you.)
"May I have the privilege of dancing with your lady?" "Sure, thank you for asking."
He whisked me away – down the stairs and onto the dance floor. "I've been watching you for a while now, I see you enjoy dancing." "Yes, it is one of my favorite things to do."
I was feeling a bit awkward and embarrassed as I realized that all of these people had a clear shot at us on the dance floor – but hey, I'm a team player – I can do this!
"Would you like to learn how to belly dance? It's really quite simple."
"Why not, I'm a good dancer, bring it on", I said with a smile.
He took me by the hand, "Now sway your hips from side to side and don't move your upper body"
Got it, this is going to be easy.
"Now turn to your man, take a step forward and shimmy your shoulders."Got it, this is going to be easy.
I turned with ease and a smile of pride and satisfaction that I was in the spotlight and doing a great job thus far – so, I took that step and then in a flash - it happened - no hope of salvation!
My foot slipped, I flew up in the air and while coming down for the landing, all the buttons on my beautiful white dress popped off!
Yes, there I was for the entire world to see – literally!
This wonderful gentleman didn't quite know what to do – I don't want to look, but I don't want to leave her lying here on the floor.
I jumped up quickly enough so as to regain any sense of dignity possible. I look to the pedestal for Art, my savior. Surely he was on his way to rescue me!!
No such luck; to my surprise and horror, I did not find him running to my rescue – instead, I saw him wrapped in Lori's arms – both of them laughing so hard I thought surely, they must have wet their pants!
It was a beautiful party, a night to be remembered for sure; my one and only night in the spotlight.
Not exactly what I dreamt it would be.
So what is the moral to this story? Never, no never, wear a button down dress while learning how to belly dance.
Thank you Father, that you do not laugh at me when I fall down – no, you come to rescue me. And for as clumsy as I am, it's a good thing.Copyright 2007 Teresa Ortiz
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Top-level comments on this article: (9 total)hi teresa, i could see the whole story unfold as you told it. and almost 5 stars-that's very good:) and i'm sure, encouraging. keep writing, best regards, sueHi Sue, I'm glad you enjoyed it. Yes, it is encouraging! Thanks for reading and commenting, I really appreciate it.
Yes, Teresa, a perhaps a lesson in humility? I have to say I'm not as liberal as your husband and being Italian that other person may not have received my mercy. Good story and amusing, for all but you that is. All the best! RTM.
Hi Robert, I am surprised to see this article on the first page. I am glad it is amusing and that you enjoyed it. Yes, lessons in humilty for sure! I am reminded of the phrase "Pride goes before the fall" As long as it brings laughter to a soul, it was worth it :-) thanks for reading! Teresa
Hi Teresa, This story was so funny, I really enjoyed the story. Love, Mom and DadThanks a bunch! I got my dancing abilities from you! :-) I'll talk to you soon!
Oh my goodness, as you bear your soul (and body) for all to see, those of us that have the privildge of working with you can't wait to see what happen's now that your older and wiser! (well, maybe just the older part). What a great story, Thanks for sharing it with us.Hi Sheri, thanks for reading. What? You didn't see me trip going up the stairs the other day? :-)
What a delightful story, Teresa! Thanks for the laughs :)You are welcome, thanks for reading. Have a good day and happy new year to you! Teresa
Well, you had me giggling at my desk. Thanks for the story. Laughter is good for the soul. I bet we all have embarassing stories. hehe!!Thank you for reading, I'm glad you got a giggle out of it. Yes, many of us have embarrassing moments. Unfortunately, I think I have more than my fair share :-) Lord Bless you! Teresa
This made me laugh but as that saying goes, "better you than me." (oops... sorry...) Seriously, you're a good sport and that's what memories are made of... we've all gotta laugh at ourselves! Thanks for sharing!Hi Judi, I'm so glad you got a good laugh. Thanks for reading. I do try to be a good sport, but I don't have too much of a choice. You know, around my house they call me Lucy-remember when I told you that I fell into the gutter while bowling?! I guess it's one of the many ways God keeps me humble. He does have a sense of humor. Happy New Year! Many hugs and smiles to you.
What a HOOT! You took me there but I wouldn't trade places with you for NADA that night! No wonder Mick and I only dance in the kitchen. MarijoGlad you got a giggle out of my embarrassing moment :-) Dancing in the kitchen is the safest place, unless you slip into the stove, shaking it, and causing the boiling water to come raining down on you. I have to think about these things, you know. :-)
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