The Last Eight Count

The Last Eight Count

by Sarah McKinnis

My heart grew heavy as I stepped onto the floor

I took my position and prepared to soar

My dancing sisters to my right and my left

Girls that within 10 lifetimes I could never forget

Those who had been with me through times that were bad

With whom I shared the best times I've ever had

I kicked my highest and I spun my hardest

I smiled my widest and I leapt my farthest

All so that I could walk away and know

I wanted to dance my best and I had done so

With all of my heart and my soul

With gracefulness, style, and control

I danced my last eight count with the team by my side

I walked off the floor smiling, but inside cried

How do you lose something that you love to do?

Without it how can you still feel you're you?

That night as I laid down my head

I prayed a prayer to God as I stirred restlessly in bed

"God, please whatever you do,

don't let the worst fear of mine ever come true

I'll be whatever you want me to be

Just don't let that be the last eight count for me"

Then God looked down at me and smiled

"Why should it ever be, my child?

As long as there is muisc and love

As long as there are stars above

The gift that I gave you will be there

You can dance anytime, anywhere."

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My new favorite poem.
These are my exact feelings after our shows this weekend.
Thank you ADC
You have done all of this for me.