The Devotion Dance

"Shut your eyes, Claire," Mom said. "We have a surprise for you." Claire closed her eyes, and her father led her to the playroom.

Dad said, "You can open your eyes now."

Claire's mouth fell open. She stared at the rectangular wooden stage at the far end of the room. A ballet barre and a full-length mirror with lights were attached to the stage. She squealed. "Wow! What a great surprise. Is today a special occasion?"

"No, dear," Mom said. "Your father and I just want to see you develop your God-given talents. Well, are you going to stand there, or are you going to try out the stage?"

Claire jumped onto the platform. "Watch this." She performed a few cartwheels, then tried different dance positions holding onto the barre. "Can I turn on some music?"

"Sure," said Mom, "just keep the noise level down."

Claire noticed an old trunk. "What's that?"

"It's another surprise. Go ahead. Open it," Dad said.

The trunk overflowed with colorful, shimmery costumes her mom had saved from her