Nutcracker? Say What?

Kim recently told me we were going to be seeing our niece, an incredibly talented ballerina, performing in the Nutcracker.  "Nutcracker?  Say What?"  Neither of us had ever seen a ballet and had no idea what to expect.  It was time to get cultured...well a little bit anyway.  Knowing absolutely nothing about what the performance would entail, imagine my surprise when, other than the beautiful music, there was absolutely no words spoken, by anyone, not even the mice.  HA!  Not only that, there was no singing.  We soon found out, absolutely no words were needed, as the entire story was communicated by the incredible dancing.  As I settled into the dazzling performance, focusing particularly on the amazing art of our niece (yes, she was really, really good), I was struck by the messages of the story behind the beautiful entertainment in front of us.  

A a young girl, while playing mischievously with her younger brother near Christmas, is presented with a Nutcracker toy by her godfather.  The younger brother sees the Nutcracker, and jealous of his sister, wrestles her for it.  You know what happens next...."spoiler alert".  It breaks!  The unfortunate result of their 'Competing, Comparing, Chasing, and Clinging' result in nothing for either of them.  How sad.  Then, in walks the godfather who shows acts of kindness, compassion, and further generosity by mending the toy he had just given the girl.  The rest of the performance ensues from there in a story about hope for a prosperous future where joy, generosity, beauty, kindness, and compassion are all around us.  What a great time to see, hear, and feel this message that transcends all cultures and needs no spoken words.  Couldn't we all benefit from such a message these days?  Honestly, it doesn't get any better than that.  Don't worry guys, check it out.  It's honestly quite spectacular to see.  And gals, as Kim and my sister-in-law noted, you will get to watch a handsome, totally in shape guy, dance around in skin tight pants for two hours.  HA! LOL!  I know...so much for getting cultured.  HAPPY HOLIDAYS!