Bowling By Burlesque

Challenging ourselves with new experiences is an important part of life, essential even. These activities force us out of our comfort zone, making it easier to deal with the stresses of life. They offer us the opportunity to see a different side of life while, oftentimes, introducing us to new people. Once completed, we discover a strength we never knew we possessed. 

While I regularly challenge myself on the bicycle, this weekend I did something I’ve never done before, something that forced me way out of my comfort zone. Friday and Saturday nights I got on a stage in front of dozens of screaming people as I performed in a burlesque show.  That’s right, burlesque!

After starting as a belly-dance performance a few years ago, last winter Terlingua Burlesque was unleashed on this dusty desert town. The organizer, Farmer, tried in vain to get me to participate. Nope, not a chance. After watching last year’s show, however, I knew I needed to be a part of the spectacle. 

Now, let me be clear: I am totally willing to wear a ridiculous costume on a bike ride. I also really enjoy public speaking. But taking off my clothes on stage in front of a bunch of drunken strangers? Nope, not gonna happen. Heck, I’ve never even stripped for a girlfriend in the privacy of the bedroom. But burlesque isn’t stripping. Rather, it’s the art of the tease. It’s funny, it’s cheeky. While it’s not about sex, it is sexy.

For nearly two hours, myself, one other guy and a dozen beautiful, talented and courageous women strutted our stuff. It was incredible. The shapes and sizes of the performers varied as much as the music styles. Some were very experienced dancers, others had done burlesque for years, including one professional from out of town. A few of the girls had performed last year, so they knew what they were getting themselves into.

Most, however, had never done anything like this before. They were nervous, struggling with issues of body image, the dread of public ridicule or wardrobe malfunctions. Even the most experienced had shaking hands as we got ready for the big night. The moment they, and I, stepped onto the stage under those lights, however, we owned it!  We danced, we smiled, we teased and we showed some skin. The crowd went wild; cheering, whistling clapping, begging for more..and we gave it to them.

For reasons above, Chinese medicine may be a whole drug that will increase the blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye, causing sudden loss of vision.3) No other Erectile Dysfunction (ED) medicine should be taken while taking sildenafil cheapest .4) Alcoholic drinks should be avoided if you are taking cialis.5) cialis prices should not be taken if the patient is on some Nitrate drug prescribed for chest pain.6). Men, who engage in excessive self pleasure after watching erotic movies or on imagining a beautiful female, are likely to suffer from damage to nerves and issues discount viagra uk with circulation that are common complications of your body can lead to issues with erection or climax. It is possible for this medicine to be absorbed into the blood and starts functioning on the system by preventing the enzyme PDE5 that further helps to prevent relaxation of smooth muscle tissue. http://appalachianmagazine.com/2017/11/08/retro-vs-metro-trying-to-understand-the-new-virginia/ levitra generika However, taking Kamagra in small doses and as recommended by doctor or the support team at an online store commander cialis will help you achieve desired erection with no side effects.

Personally, I struggled immensely with the idea of being alone on that stage. So, to help me overcome my fears, I was joined by three incredible women for my rendition of the Queen song, Fat Bottomed Girls. Without the ongoing support of these beautiful women, I don’t believe I would have shook my butt in a black Speedo on stage. That’s right, a speedo and cowboy boots! It wasn’t drag, it was a straight guy dancing for straight women. Although I’m pretty sure the gay men and many of the straight men cheered louder than the women did.

Walking off stage, I felt incredible. I achieved something I’d never done before…and I did it well. I took my fear and paraded it in front of people, something that made me feel far more naked than wearing only that tiny Speedo. But I took that fear and made it my strength. We all did. It was the most rewarding experience to be a part of; being with a group of friends and strangers as we came together to support each other, shaking with fear but eventually, brimming with pride.

I’ve come away from this with several new friends. I’ve also deepened the relationships I have with many others. And I could not be more proud of these people, nor could I be more thankful. I love you all so very much, we did it!

Whatever the challenge is that you need, whatever it is that you fear, I encourage you to face it, to own it. You might not need to prance around mostly naked on a stage but I’m sure you’ll get the same feelings of triumph and pride we shared this weekend. Just take a deep breath, smile to yourself, and get out there.