Cultural Diversity

Introductions
Originally uploaded by dandeelines.

Happy Independence Day! Diedra and I had a great weekend, enjoying an interesting mix of activities. Saturday night we went to Balch Springs Recreational Center to watch some professional wrestling. Apparently there are little wrestling federations around that put on “shows” in little venues like this Rec Center. We enter this gym (about the size of an elementary school gym) and see this huge wrestling ring set up with small bleachers set up on all four sides. A grey haired man comes out and gives the scenario, introducing the various wrestlers, and reviewing whatever drama took place in their previous meetings. Usually there is a contrived controversy regarding some violation of the “rules,” and the crowd roots for the more “virtuous” wrestler who got robbed last time. The wrestlers themselves are dressed in colorful costumes, and have names like “Scorpion” and “Slam Shady.”

The crowd heckles the wrestlers, and the wrestlers either taunt or woo the crowd. The choreographed slaps and slams ensue until one wrestler pins the other for a full three-count from the referee. After three different title bouts, the evening is over. What a night. You’d have to see it to believe it. Quite a cultural experience!

Sunday, we had another cultural experience. After church we went to see Les Miserables in Fair Park. This was by far my most favorite Musical Experience! The story is so beautiful, the set and costumes are amazing, and the music is simply rapturous. There are so many delectable moments that just make shivers tingle down your spine. If you haven’t had an opportunity to see a live performance, please try to go whenever you get a chance. It is so worth it.

There you have it, one weekend, two dances: a ballet of brawn, and a beautiful musical story. God bless Texas.