I don’t understand the words, but the sounds of Hindustani songs have touched my soul deeply since I was a child. The vibration resonates through my very cells.
In January 2009, I take action. My heritage feels too far removed from me. I want to reconnect, to find myself again, to root myself in the culture I come from.
I decide to connect with my heritage through dance. I book private lessons at a dance school and, at the age of fifty, begin learning Orissi temple dancing.

I am finally home. Tears stream down my cheeks. The dance lessons have ended, but my connection to the culture and the Gods remains, and grows stronger. I take the next step.

I would love to perform for you. Please give me the opportunity. I want to perform some classical Indian dance for you. I told the organizers of Peter Senge’s program in January 2010.
In early March, I travel to Boston to join Peter’s leadership training. After just two months of learning, I proudly want to share my roots with the world. I bring my outfit and makeup along. When the day’s program ends and the reception begins, I rush to my hotel room and transform myself into a dancer.

“Oh my God, who is she? Oh, it’s Jane,” people exclaim as I open the door and walk into the packed room.
I perform, and even manage to teach a few dance steps to the forty-five participating managers and directors from around the world, including Peter and his team. We dance together and enjoy Baithak Gana. The atmosphere is warm and open. By revealing my heritage, an incredible sense of unity and love fills the space.
All masks fall away. We become joyful children, celebrating together.

(Read the full story on page 137 of Peace with Your Origins)