8 years ago...

8 years ago at The Learning Place, my school when I was in elementary (wait, that means I was 12 y/o that time?!) it was my first time to "dance". We had a talent showcase and I had a partner, Jophi. As far as I can remember it was just for fun. Wasn't really good at singing, didn't want to make a solo theater performance so there, we danced. Looking back, I really didn't know what I was thinking, what we were thinking!

8 years later, I went back to the school where I first danced. To the school which gave me the confidence, to the school that believed in our talents and saw the best in us.

8 years later, I set foot again to the school that has a special place in my heart.

The day was full of unexpected events. My only plan was just to visit the school. I saw Gelo, Laya, Teacher Lola, Teacher Lolo, Teacher Vicky. Met new teachers also then I met the next generation of TLP dancers, they are now called "Free Movers".

From what was partners back then, somehow a dream became a reality.

8 years ago, I didn't know I will pursue dancing. I was on my 2nd year HS when I danced again and then the rest is history.

I performed for the kids and then taught them some moves. It was a different teaching experience. I made a simple 16 count choreography. They didn't mind if it was easy or hard, they were listening and after teaching them, when the kids were practicing on their own, it was the most fulfilling part, I guess. Seeing them trying to remember and do something I was struggling to do when I was their age. 

"Kuya Ramon, am I doing it right?" one Free Mover approached me. Then another one asked if she was doing it right. 

Ganun pala yung feeling. 

It was somehow different because at Street it's me who do most of the asking. And asking is part of growing, part of learning.

We reviewed the steps, we had a part where in only boys will do the choreo, then all girls. It was a fun experience.

8 years ago, I didn't see myself teaching. 

8 years ago, beside from the "hair crisis" were I continuously joke with Tr. Vicky and Gelo, didn't see myself being this attached to the school, to my roots.

It was a day full of laughter, it was elementary all over again.

As I walk through the corridors, as I feel the walls of the classrooms, I can't help but to be teary eyed. I'll be graduating in a year and how time flies.

8 years later...

Jophi is now part of the Wyre Underground of UPLB. He's part of the competing team that will be heading to the finals of the Skechers Street Dance Battle 9 at the MOA Arena.

As for me, I'm blessed to be part of the La Salle Dance Company - Street. Been blessed to be the last president of Lucid Dance Troupe of De La Salle - Canlubang now DLSU-STC. I've been blessed to be part of the 1st batch of Boscru at Caritas Don Bosco School. I've been blessed to be able to travel to different places, blessed to meet awesome people and friends, bless to just have the opportunity to represent something.

8 years ago, I didn't eve imagine that I'll be a part of any. I didn't see myself being put to this position because of dancing.

8 years ago, if we didn't danced on that floor, will it still be the same?

Before I said good bye to the kids, I was asked to give an advice.

"Trust your teammates, trust your friends. Always compliment one another if they're doing it right. Always help one another if one is in need. Ask because it's part of learning and lastly, enjoy what you're doing."

It won't be the last time for sure.

Till then, Free Movers!

MONG