The Politics of Dancing
By Nadiyah

For the most part, the belly dancing community is cohesive -- welcoming newcomers with gratitude and joy.  Displaying grace towards the newcomers presents the overall belly dancing community in the most positive light.  The impact is productive, for even more potential dancers are magnetized to the dance; the outsiders see the intrinsic and extrinsic beauty and desire to experience the many wonderful effects of Belly Dance.

Unfortunately, a few souls can hamper the overall positive experience for others.  Arrogance, envy, and/or resentment can destroy in a few seconds what unconditional love has developed over time.  Even if the opposition's commitment to belly dancing is a strong, the spectators can be easily repulsed.  As proclaimed belly dancers, we are always on stage.

If someone in the belly dancing community has upset you, please think before you act.  An important rule of thumb in human relation is to "Praise publicly and discipline/redirect discreetly."

Most importantly, if your desired actions are based upon feelings, take a breather and walk away.  Here are some questions to help you reflect on your situation:

    Evaluate how the actions will impact you.
    1. What is the underlying motive of your potentially damaging desired action?
    2. Will it provide immediate satisfaction, but harm you in the long run?

    Evaluate the circumstances.
    3. Is the desired action based on suspicions or do you need to collect more facts?
    4. What is the opposition trying to accomplish?
    5. Could she/he be telling the truth?  (Likewise, are you being honest with yourself?)
    6. What needs are not being met?  Evaluate both sides.
    7. Can you assist her/him in fulfilling those needs in an alternative way?
    8. Can you fulfill your needs in a more mutually beneficial manner?

    Evaluate the impact on The Belly Dance Community.
    9.   How will your actions impact the belly dance community?
    10. Is there a way the belly dance community could resolve the situation?
When faced with conflict, look for the positive long-term outcomes – for you, for your opposition, and for the belly dance community as a whole.  By focusing on each entity involved, you’ll have a better chance of being objective and developing more win-win solutions.

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