As I opened the door to the South Portland indoor walking track, I heard music, loud music. I was about to take my daily three-plus-mile hike around the track. A party or any activity in the gym always enlivens the endless laps around the track, so I was prepared to enjoy.
Below me, in the gym, was a crowd of performers surrounded by an audience. Those young performers were jumping, twisting, rolling up on one hand, down on two knees, up on a shoulder, balancing on their heads, hopping, sliding – it was breathtaking. Being a sensible elderly lady, I disabled my hearing aids and launched into my walk. At every rotation, I stopped to admire the hip-hoppers. That is what is was: a hip-hop dance competition.
The performers and audience showed an air of kindness and care for each other. There was hugging, pats on the back, fist bumping and many smiles for everyone. The emcee was given respect; when he asked for quiet, it was hushed. When he asked for applause, it was enthusiastic.
What with the stopping, cheering, applauding and laughing aloud, I walked possibly one mile – one happy mile. My thanks to the hip-hoppers.
Charlene Hagen
South Portland
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