Each year we ask our classmates a straightforward, simple question taken from the lines of a poem by Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Mary Oliver. We share with you intimate and candid responses to this question, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" Concept and photography: Tony Deifell, MBA 2002.
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?
“Why can’t I go on stage too?” At five years old, watching from the audience at my sister’s first ballet recital, I was so excited by the music and dancing I could barely stay in my seat. “Well, you can go on stage if you want,” my dad replied, “but you have to wait until the performance is over.” I had never had a dance lesson, but the moment the show ended I ran up on stage and began jumping and turning in celebration of my newly discovered passion. My parents signed me up for lessons. I became the ‘ballet boy’ at school. Some said ballet was for girls. Others said I wasn’t a real athlete. My parents said not to worry about those kids. Thirteen years later I took the stage as a professional. I lived my dream. I even met the love of my life. My parents were always in the audience. Today, the passion I cultivated on that stage echoes in everything I do. By recognizing and nurturing that passion my parents gave me one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. My oldest son just turned five. I can’t wait to see what stages he and his brother decide to take.
