At Least You Tried

“It’s better to try something and not like it, than to not try at all and regret it later in life” is what my mother never fails to remind me.

This phrase applies to anything and everyone no matter the age, oftentimes people put limits on their desires because they think they are too old or too young to do something. The truth is that you just need to be determined and confident to set out your goals.

For me, this phrase was a little voice in my head that helped and continues to help me in my college journey. As a Freshman I tried a lot of new things that I never in a million years thought I would do.

There is a group of Aztec Dancers that perform at Central Washington University (CWU) every year for the Day of the Dead celebration. This group encourages students at CWU to dance and perform with them no matter their race.

At first, I was conflicted with joining because the dancers were experienced, and practices were not your typical dance class. I listened to that voice and as scared as I was, I showed up for practices.

when performing night came around, I was amazed at the process and learned the meaning behind the dance. I have so much respect for these dancers and what they do, I have gained friendships from this experience and I always look forward to dancing with them every year.

Another turning point for me was the talent show at CWU, dancing Hip-Hop has always been a part of my life but I do it as a hobby rather than perform on stage or compete.

One day, the friends that I dance with had the idea to audition for the talent show and I was quick to say no. But they kept explaining and they were confident in our abilities.

Soon enough I was hearing my moms voice again in my head, after a couple minutes of making up my mind I agreed.

When the day to perform came, we walked on that stage and the room went quiet, once the music started and we hit the first beat the room was loud and cheering us on.

After everyone performed the audience got to choose the winners, it was a close one but we pulled it off and sure enough we won.

I think to myself now and I would have regretted at least not trying because I have gained friendships and confidence. I don’t know how, but that little voice is almost always 99.9% of the time right.

I hope that whoever reads this tries something new, and if you do and don’t like it, then at least you tried.