Reflections on Mentorship: 5/27/22

When I was introduced to Rebekah Abbey as my mentee at Seattle Easter Swing, I asked if there were any teachers she worked with primarily:

“Well, I’m from New York, so I’ve mostly worked with Robert. Are you familiar with his technique?”

I had to laugh.

“Yeah, I’m pretty familiar with Robert’s technique.”

In the AI application for mentors, we ask All-Stars to describe an experience they’ve had as a mentee.

So here’s one of mine.

__

I was waiting to dance dummy a lesson for one of Robert’s students when he turned to me:

“When are you going to put a routine on the floor? Not a Cabaret routine, a swing routine.”

I offered up some excuses about wanting to do it properly, to respect the hierarchy of Rising Star and the routine divisions.

“I was told Classic is for professional swing dancers.”

“People already know you’re a pro from another dance. Any other excuses?”

“I don’t think I’m ready.”

“No one is ready for Classic. So get on the floor, lose a few times, and GET ready.”

__

Our mentors don’t just talk to us about mechanics and competitive strategies. They can deflate our limiting beliefs, offer outside perspective, and keep us focused on the long arc of our journeys.

In Robert’s case, he’s done more than that— I’ve stayed in his home, eaten at his table, and sung in the car with his kids. He invested time and belief in me at a time when I couldn’t do that for myself. His support has outlasted partnerships, relationships, and career changes.

I would not be in the position I am in now, running a program to foster mentors in our community, without his mentorship.

“Grateful” isn’t a sufficient word.