“Most true happiness comes from one’s inner life, from the disposition of the mind and soul”
Week 09 2-25-22 “Most true happiness comes from one’s inner life, from the disposition of the mind and soul”
Changing Lives through Dancing by David Woodbury
“Most true happiness comes from one’s inner life, from the disposition of the mind and soul. Admittedly, a good inner life is hard to achieve, especially in these trying times. It takes reflection and contemplation and self-discipline.”
– William L. Shirer (1904 – 1993)
American Journalist and Historian
Imagine that this quote was written years before covid, yet William L. Shirer lived through the Spanish Flu 1918-1920. My own father, Col. Troy D. Woodbury, also lived through those trying times. Mr. Shirer writes of having the good inner life and the tools of reflection and contemplation and self-discipline as the tools for this life.
Tonight, I just posted the new mask rules for LA County and I realize that things are finally getting better. We must still be vigilant, yet all the numbers are improving. As our Arthur Murray Dance Center is open and lessons are being taught and we are having groups and even dance parties, I am reminded of all that it has taken for us to recover to this point and what it will take now to get our business to explode with success again. Yes, it’s time to dance again and shake off the blues!
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.
– Proverbs 16:9 NIV
When Disneyland closed in March of 2020, I knew that we, and all of us would be closing next. Our vibrant, wonderful school was shuttered within days. We thought we’d be closed two weeks. It was a total of 175 days during two lockdowns. In my heart, we were living our planned course, yet our steps were definitely established beyond our control. We never covered our windows and secretly let people in through the back door. We have no regrets for following the mandates. It was rough and trying.
“To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.”
– Donald A. Adams (B – 1925)
former president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania
Living a life of service is my calling. This comes from the leadership of my father and his great example. His riches were not measured by his wealth, and he was very successful. Col. Woodbury was truly known for his service, integrity, and character. As I grow older, I think of keeping good health and giving great service to others.
I’d give a nickel to talk with my Daddy about the Spanish Flu and how he and his family made it through those dark times. I’d ask him what the Roaring 20’s was like and then how he made it through the Great Depression. All I have is the memory that he DID make it through these times, raising four children and a loving marriage of 60 years. Now, I must walk in his shoes as someone who gives support, love, and mentoring to others.
We will never truly understand the whats and whys from the last almost three years. What is important is that we are strong and keep our hope and vision strong. Perhaps what is most vital is how we can move forward while keeping our dreams alive.
Thanks for reading. Keep on Dancing. Don’t give up. It will get better.
David Woodbury – Arthur Murray Santa Monica, CA
Love you all,
David Woodbury