Dancing has been an activity to bring communities together and encourage pair bonding for centuries. In ancient times major events and holidays were celebrated with dancing. Even today, this custom of “The Dance” is practiced in most cultures around the world. It’s as if dancing is woven into the very fabric of our humanity. There are so many different types of dancing with new dances being created all the time. Square Dancing is one of them. All forms of dance share many characteristics and I am certain many relationships have begun at a dance. Even Cinderella met her Prince at a dance.

I have been a Square Dancer for many years. One of the things I’ve noticed is how many people fall in love through Square Dancing. Since I’ve become a Caller it’s one of the things I use to encourage single people to try Square Dancing. I like to say “It’s better than any dating service out there.” Now I don’t have hard facts to back that up, but it’s a good line to get them thinking. I’m sure being single is not too fun at times. Loneliness can be a real issue for some people. We as human beings are meant to seek out companionship. We are social beings. Square Dancing addresses that need for companionship and family. Square Dancing is the perfect activity for relationships to flourish and love to be nourished. For those that are married it can certainly add a new dimension to the relationship.

For single people and married alike Square Dancing is a “no brainer” date night. If you and your partner both dance, you don’t have to worry about choosing the right activity. Square Dancing is one of the last wholesome activities out there. You can enjoy the evening without alcohol and the music doesn’t have a bunch of potentially objectionable lyrics. People participate without the fear of competition as the dancing is performed in a spirit of teamwork and cooperation. There’s a clear leader of the activity – a Caller – so the dancers are free to follow along without having to “make up” the dance. Everyone wears name badges so you know their name and the exercise makes you feel better. Even touching and hugging is encouraged – and necessary - as the dancers interact. With all these benefits Square Dancing is a wonderful way to meet someone or get to know them better. It’s an activity often shared by the whole family. In fact, at one point or another everyone in my family has Square Danced. Now that’s a different kind of Love but its still “Love in The Square.”

I realize Square Dancing isn’t the only way to meet someone but it sure is a great way. I meet my wife at a Square Dance and I know many others who have as well. There is just something special about a dance that makes meeting someone and interacting with them so much easier. One of the things I like about being a Square Dance Caller is playing a part in the “matchmaking” story. I have gotten comments from dancers saying “We met at one of your dances” or “We took lessons with you X years ago and now we are married.” Its great knowing you played a part in someone else’s happiness.

As with any activity you never know who you’re going to meet and how that meeting can change your life. If you want more love in your life, get out and dance because… “Love is in The Square.” “To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love." Jane Austen