As we wrap up Father’s Day and leading up to his birthday, I often reflect on the funny things my dad used to say and do. He loved music of almost all genres. He owned an extensive collection of music, and he LOVED to dance. Any time he heard good music he would dance. Now, you couldn’t tell him that he couldn’t dance and even if you did, he wouldn’t care.
The thing I admire most about my dad is that he lived life on his own terms. He wasn’t seeking approval or acceptance from anyone. When I was younger, I couldn’t understand that concept. I couldn’t understand how he didn’t get attached to things or even people. He’d just move on. As an adult I understand it and yearn for that type of freedom. I used to think it was irresponsible but now, not so much. I miss him every day but one comforting and whimsical thought that crosses my mind and will make me laugh out loud sometimes is dancing. I wonder if they are dancing in heaven. Dancing, after all, is a universal expression of joy, freedom, and connection.
Just Dance
My dad loved to dance. You’d find him at any gathering dancing, even if by himself. He’d go out to dance. His dance moves were always a source of joy and laughter. You couldn’t tell him that he wasn’t’ the best dancer in ANY place. Dancing was more than just movement for him; it was a celebration of life. It was a way to connect with those around him, to express happiness, and to live in the moment. Watching him dance was a reminder that life was to be lived and enjoyed. He was the epitome of “dance like no one is watching”. Not that he would care if you were watching.
When I think of heaven, I envision a place of peace, love, and eternal happiness. It’s a place where pain and suffering cease to exist, replaced by the purest forms of joy and contentment. In this heavenly realm, I like to imagine my dad dancing once again, his spirit unburdened and free. The thought of him twirling and laughing, surrounded by loved ones who have also passed, brings me immense comfort. I know without a doubt that he has brought his music. He is wearing his headphones and dancing. Dancing to his own beat.
On Father’s Day, and other special occasions, I honor my dad’s memory by celebrating his spirit. I play his favorite songs, imagine his dance moves, and sometimes even dance myself, feeling his presence in each step. It’s a way to keep his joy and energy alive in my own life. Dancing is a great way to relax, helps you think clearly, and music can transport you to another place. You can do a world tour listening to different music and emerging yourself in the beats.
Grief is a complex journey and finding ways to cope with the loss of a loved one can be challenging. Imagining them dancing in heaven is one way to find comfort. It provides a vision of them being happy, free, and surrounded by love. This thought can transform sorrow into a more positive reflection on their afterlife, bringing peace to those of us left behind. Ultimately, the idea of dancing in heaven is a celebration of life itself. It’s about remembering the joyous moments we shared with our loved ones and believing that those moments continue in a different, yet beautiful form. It’s a reminder that love and joy are eternal, transcending the physical separation between this world and the next.
So, do they dance in heaven? I like to believe they do. The thought of my dad dancing in heaven fills my heart with warmth and brings a smile to my face. It’s a comforting image that helps me navigate the complexities of grief and keeps his joyous spirit alive in my heart.
When grief gets seemingly too hard to bare, remember to DANCE. Just DANCE.
