Keep Dancing the Towel Step

When I first wrote this reflection, I was unaware of the dance contest phenomena such as “Dancing with the Stars” that held so many in such a tight grip of interest. I would pass through the living room from time to time and catch a routine or two.

Some win; some lose. Some get better; some fall apart. All get the benefit of the competition IF they choose to do so.

I’ve seen many steps in dance, but never the TOWEL Step. That is the one I recommend to you as you dance your way through life.

We use the term “throwing in the towel” to describe quitting in the middle of a project or dream. It is to admit defeat or failure. The etymology of the term is based on the literal meaning of throwing a towel into the ring in boxing as a way of admitting that the boxer just can’t go on.

I would like to suggest an alternative: Keep your towel. Don’t throw it in. Take some steps toward renewal of your depleted energy.

Someone out there is ready to quit. You are drained and empty, discouraged and tired, beaten and bloody from the fight.

I know it is true. Prove me wrong and make me a happy man. Otherwise, listen to me: Don’t give up.

I believe this: Someone is discouraged beyond their ability to muster enough energy to make even one phone call, write even one…