Who would have thought that stomping on rooftops to fix mud patterns would be the origin of Dabke, the traditional Lebanese folk-dance? More importantly, who knew Dabke would become a distinguishing piece of my identity? Serving as more than just a dance, Dabke has been therapeutic, benefitting me and my family by alleviating any stress in our lives.
As a first generation Lebanese-American, it has always been my duty to understand the traditions that define my culture, including my family’s distraught history and the curative power of Dabke. Due to political turmoil, my family immigrated to the United States from Lebanon in 1978, and with the pursuit of the American Dream in mind, they essentially started from scratch. My grandfather, the …show more content…
Being taught at a young age, I have developed and perfected the skills needed to fully appreciate Dabke, paying attention to its intricate footwork and body expressions. Learning from my family, I showcased their teachings at parties, holiday events, and our church’s annual festivals. After numerous hours of practice, all that is left is the performance. While performing, only one thing comes to mind: what is the next step? In that moment, I am not concerned with homework, exams, or any other responsibilities. All that matters in that moment is executing one of Lebanon’s most sacred traditions, making my family and other Lebanese families proud while simultaneously relieving any stress in my life.
While Dabke is a traditional Lebanese dance, it has played such a critical role in my life by allowing me to escape from any issues I may be dealing with. Nevertheless, I hope to pass down this traditional dance onto future generations so they have an understanding of how impactful this tradition is. And even if just for a few minutes at a church related event or in the midst of a civil war, Dabke has been so much more than just a dance: it is, and always will be, my
As a first generation Lebanese-American, it has always been my duty to understand the traditions that define my culture, including my family’s distraught history and the curative power of Dabke. Due to political turmoil, my family immigrated to the United States from Lebanon in 1978, and with the pursuit of the American Dream in mind, they essentially started from scratch. My grandfather, the …show more content…
Being taught at a young age, I have developed and perfected the skills needed to fully appreciate Dabke, paying attention to its intricate footwork and body expressions. Learning from my family, I showcased their teachings at parties, holiday events, and our church’s annual festivals. After numerous hours of practice, all that is left is the performance. While performing, only one thing comes to mind: what is the next step? In that moment, I am not concerned with homework, exams, or any other responsibilities. All that matters in that moment is executing one of Lebanon’s most sacred traditions, making my family and other Lebanese families proud while simultaneously relieving any stress in my life.
While Dabke is a traditional Lebanese dance, it has played such a critical role in my life by allowing me to escape from any issues I may be dealing with. Nevertheless, I hope to pass down this traditional dance onto future generations so they have an understanding of how impactful this tradition is. And even if just for a few minutes at a church related event or in the midst of a civil war, Dabke has been so much more than just a dance: it is, and always will be, my