To dance or not to dance? That is the question.

"5, 6, 7, 8!" You hear called out from the instructor. Then a loud clamor of tap shoes hitting the hardwood floor echoes throughout the gym. All you see are two lines of dancers in uniform putting together the choreography. As the class continues its routine, the instructor stops to watch, and after a moment passes, she announces, "And all of you make such sophisticated ladies."

Pleased to hear such a remark, the class members smile and finish with a BANG! The instructor stares at the class with a look of accomplishment and informs them they will be performing the routine in front of an assembly. Though startled by the whole idea of dancing in front of people they know, practice must go on. And, with a look of discomfort on their face, they practice without complaint.

• The Grapes of Wrath Home
• Student Writings