Divergent Rhythms: Exploring Ballet and Korean Classical Dance (05/08/'24) -Viewpoint

Divergent Rhythms: Exploring Ballet and Korean Classical Dance (Divergent Rhythms: Navigating Ballet's Influence and the Inclusivity of Korean Classical Dance) Ballet, a form of Western dance, requires intensive training, physical beauty, and refinement. Only through rigorous preparation can one master its intricate movements. This type and method of artistic expression are dominant across nearly all fields, including religion, evangelism, education, art, institutions, the economy, and politics. It's akin to a school for training dogs, embedding an unnatural approach that conflicts with human nature. In contrast, Korean classical dance presents a different philosophy. Here, anyone can dance without extensive training, relying on natural body movements rather than specialized techniques or physical conditioning. Instead of tiptoeing with precise posture, dancers maintain balance using their heels, stabilizing their bodies while moving fluidly and expressively. Western dance's training methods emphasize technical precision, revealing a structured and sometimes rigid perception of movement. This systematic training often pressures dancers to conform to high standards that may seem unnatural. Observing religious ceremonies also reflects the structured influence of these forms, where the approach to evangelism fundamentally differs. Ballet demands systematic training, motivation, and dedication that not everyone can easily muster. If humans inhabited a distant star, missionary journeys to evangelize there might become the latest trend. However, the gospel of Jesus Christ isn’t like this. Evangelism should be accessible to anyone who believes in His will, flowing naturally like water to a lower point rather than requiring elaborate preparation like a fountain jetting water into the sky. Though such fountains draw crowds, they require costly infrastructure and specialized equipment. Korean dance, by contrast, invites everyone to express their emotions, joys, and sorrows through movement. Instead of thinking dance requires only the body, everyone should be able to dance easily through the heart, facial expressions, and natural movements. This approach allows each individual to transform their feelings into a unique, personal expression of body language. Pastor Steven G. Lee (May 8, 2024)