2006 has offered more lessons than I was prepared for.  I went into the year feeling depleted but hopeful.  The previous years had been burdened by a people-pleasing nature that had drained me completely. I'm a good student.  I see in others a wealth of wisdom.  I believe that everyone has something profound to offer and I'm always open for the moment when that special "something" comes to light.  Over the course of this year I've mastered the art of "NO" and have begun to trust my own instincts and wisdom in life and art.  I can hear myself for the first time.  As it turns out, I like to be alone. 

In my quiet moments alone, I've wondered if I would have started Scapegoat Garden if I knew in 2002 what I now know.  I may have proceeded with more caution, but I wouldn't trade this experience.  There's something about the concrete nature of a company - the character of Scapegoat Garden is establishing itself more and more firmly.  So, while my personal growth is closely tied to the company's, the integrity of the mission has independence.  Scapegoat Garden has provided a structured curriculum for my growth as an artist.  I guess I'm a student of that structure.  I'm not sure where it will all lead, but I trust it. 

I don't think I was prepared for the secret language of the dance world.  Many of us were raised to believe that hard work and skill is all one needs to advance in the world.  Instead, I'm finding that there is a secret language that I was never taught.  And I'm realizing that a proficiency in this language can not be replaced by hard work or skill.  But I'm more observant now.  I'm beginning to unlock the code.   While my dance training taught me to be seen and not heard, to require little and to always be flexible, I'm seeing that those who are successful are unwavering in their efforts to get their needs and desires met.  So, I'm learning to be less flexible in many areas.  I'm less willing to relent.