This is for all of us who have given up.

For all of us who have already decided we don't have the time, the talent, or the patience to learn to dance.

Quietly, we want to be part of that atmosphere; to escape to the rhythm of the music and share its unique experience with friends. But we know enough about ourselves to know it's never going to happen...

We'd love to find someone who could change the way we think. Someone with a genuine belief in his ability to teach and our ability to learn - without nightmarish embarrassment or struggle. Someone whose methods could overcome the hesitation and frustration we have experienced in the past.

This is Tony Duarte. This is Salsabor Tropical. And this is salsa for everyone who wants to dance regardless of their skill level.

All you need is a "great attitude" and an "open mind" Tony said.

I thought it was all hype at first.

Then I watched how he focused on the basic step, teaching class after class, constantly reminding all of us there were no time limits, rules, or requirements to learning.

Tony already knew most of us had reservations about our ability that might limit our initial progress, so he taught by breaking down even the simplest moves. He structured his class levels and lessons so each of us could progress at our own pace, building our confidence at the same time we built our foundation in technique.

Remarkably, those of us with absolutely no natural ability who learned at the slowest pace were continually entertained by Tony's teaching style. He made everything about the process fun. You wanted to go to the next class - especially if you had questions - because you felt comfortable in the environment.

That comfort was a product of Salsabor Tropical's belief that you treat your fellow dancers as part of an extended family. No one gets turned away at practice; no gets turned away on the floor. Everyone - regardless of their individual progress - gives their new friends encouragement and the full opportunity to enjoy the experience.

It creates more than dancers; it creates friends.

I would have told anyone this was impossible. I had an endless supply of excuses to avoid dance lessons. I took the first few classes just as a distraction from a horrific work schedule. I knew I couldn't learn this. I knew I wouldn't learn this.

"You can and you will," Tony said, "you just have to want to."

That is the only question.

"Do you want to?"

If the answer is "yes", regardless of your reservations, Salsabor Tropical is the answer.

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