The pain

The bloody toes from tight pointe shoes

Falling over and over until you scream

Using a muscle that you accidentally tore

Bruises from drilling the dance over and over

The pain

The practices
Coaches that unfailingly shout “One More Time!”
Endless practices to get you ready for performances
Workouts that drain all of your energy

Up before dawn, home after dusk
The practices

The competitions
Waiting in the chute with bunches of nervous energy
Performing your best and trying to get the number one prize
Your whole team waiting to hear the announcers say your name
The crowd starts cheering from the stands
The competitions

The joy
Adrenaline pumping through your veins while dancing

The love for performing on a stage

Ending a performance with a standing ovation

The happiness that comes from winning first place
The joy