Big Wheel Keep on Turnin'

As promised, a blog post on India. Before leaving for India our class was told that we would be participated in Culture Night. The students at Lady Doak College in India would be performing some native dances from the area and it was expected that we do perform something native to our culture. What is native to American culture? I suggested that we bake an apple pie and run a few football blitzes. I think what is hard for other countries to understand about America is that we are really a conglomeration of other cultures. When you have a random group of 12 people, what is "culture" for one person is not "culture" for another. For example, one member of the group did not want to sing or dance. She felt it was too much like a 4th grade elementary school concert. After much deliberation, our culture came together.

Now, when I left on this trip to India I decided I wanted to try and go outside of my comfort zone. We wanted to sing a song, but not too many people in the group were willing to sing. I know I have a passable voice, and I needed to step outside my comfort zone and so I agreed to sing. Eventually we decided upon "Proud Mary" the Tina Turner version. Contrary to popular belief, I do not enjoy being in the spotlight or performing in front of strangers. But I put my best foot forward and performed.


Before going out on stage I think I ate about 4 pounds of sugar out of nervousness. Then I decided it was time to either go big or go home. If my friend Andreya was there she would say to just cut loose and give in to my inner diva. Notice the classy touch of lyrics in my hand.

After singing Proud Mary we did a few steps of the Cha-Cha slide. Because what is more American than a song that tells you what steps to take. We brought down the house.


To answer your lingering questions, yes there is a video of this performance. No, you may not see it.