Finale

The year is finally coming to an end. If this was a dance performance, I'd be waiting backstage ready to give my last curtsy to the audience before the curtain closes.

A lot has happened this year through this Quest- some good and some bad, and I've been sharing my successes and struggles as I work through this Quest in monthly blog posts.

For my last Quest assignment, I gave a speech on reflecting on my journey through this year, and what this project has taught me about not only dance, but also my everyday life. I discussed themes of hard work and dealing with failure in my speech, but there was also a lot I didn't have the chance to talk about (talking about only two points was hard enough as is).

I've not only learned lessons about life, but also lessons about myself. Through celebrating my successes and overcoming my struggles this year, I've learned that I should be proud of myself and the talents I've cultivated through years of work. I've learned that in order for others to have confidence in me, I first have to have confidence in myself. I've learned that if I put my mind to it, I am capable of things that might seem impossible. This may sound like I'm reciting cheesy thoughts and emotions merely for a good grade (a half-truth), but now that I've started writing I realize how true all of this is.

I went into this Quest with no expectations-- I thought I would just halfheartedly film a couple of dances, and never give this project a second thought. Instead, I've come out of this project with a deeper insight into who I am as a person and a vision for how I can continue to improve myself in the future. I have become braver, more confident, and more determined.

Dancing in Doha has led me to realize that even if I'm not home in Texas, I can still follow my dreams and do what I love. As the months passed, I felt more and more at home in Qatar, and I think this project has been a big part in my journey to acceptance of my temporary home.

This Quest has only confirmed to me how important dance is to my life, and has only furthered my passion to continue dancing in the years to come. It's bittersweet to see this project come to an end, but I know that the things I've learned throughout this year will have a lasting impact on the rest of my life.

Lastly, in acknowledgment of where it all began 15 years ago:

Here's to many more years of Dancing in Doha.

bye bye~

ellie