What's your passion?

This past weekend was pretty eventful. Saturday, I kicked most of the day with my sis and the CO Crew. Earlier in the day, we practiced a bit for an event next week, and then the guys prepared for a tournament later that day. At practice, we were just goofin' around (funny ass pics comin' soon... hahahaha), sharing skills and whatnot. As practice grew to a close, the guys became more... i dunno, focused I guess. I didn't realize that the tournament later that day was so intense. Anywhos, me and my sis Tash went to go support the guys. It was a b-boi tournament held in a hot (and I mean hella hot) little warehouse in West Oakland. One-on-one freestyle battles, and four-on-four crews. Some tite shiznit! These folks were so dayum talented, it was amazing! Sometimes you need to be exposed to things like this because they restore a sense of purpose and a desire to become better than you were before. Words cannot explain the energy and charge I got from being there. I mean, aside from watchin' folks represent, these random dance circles would break out, and folks would just show their skills. I always have this hope of being able to do a little of as many dance styles as I can, so at this point, I am still practicing the basics of breaking, popping, and locking. I'm pretty shy about showing it to other folks (especially friends), but here, it didn't matter. I have never been confident in my floor work, but here I was. I guess because my sis and CO were the main motivators. The CO guys are hella cool, and I am happy to have the chance to work with them because they are great guys, and I know that they will be tite at whatever they do. Their passion for dance is infectious.

While I was there though, something came to mind. How come more parents don't support this form of dance? I only saw like two sets of parents there. Unfortunately, one family was there for a tribute to their son that was killed in an auto accident in San Jose earlier this year. They were very supportive of him in life and still carry on his spirit. So powerful. I dunno, maybe some people think what these guys do is nonsense, but if they saw how much dedication they have and desire to do what they do, they would guess again.

The only thing about this event is how ladies don't get very much recognition and support for their skills. During the event, we all crowded around a small patch of linoleum, but as time when on, the space got smaller and smaller. When two ladies were about to battle, the guy goes "I know they just girls, but give them some space." What the hell?!?! Just girls? I guess with their little petite feet and bodies, they only need about an inch o space, no? Bitches (the folks that doubt the ladies that is). And dayum, why did they have to get the slowest and whackest songs to battle to? Lame I tell ya.

Well, despite the last item, and the long ass intermissions, the event was dope! Seven hours of pure hip-hop for only $10? You can't beat that. The next time an event like this comes around, do yourself a favor and go. It's definitely a treat to be had.