In 1985 I moved to San Francisco alone to dance full-time with their ballet company. Fresh out of high school, my dream was finally coming true. I had trained with them in summers prior, but this would be more permanent.
3000 miles away from home, I lived in a studio apartment on Market & 8th. Paying bills, riding subways, grocery shopping for myself – was all new. Each day was a learning experience in city life survival. All I really cared about was getting to class 4 blocks away! And of course my next part in San Francisco Ballet’s productions.
My daily walk downtown took me through the park behind City Hall. It were literally full of people living everywhere: on the grass, sidewalks and benches. I had never seen anything like it. Early morning and late at night I stepped around and over people to get to my building’s door.
I did not know what to do about this bazaar world around me. I was heartbroken at what I saw. My successes and failures began to pale in comparison. Compassion for humanity grew, but so did the reality that I could not change this… so I prayed. A lot.
Those 16 months in California were some of my most difficult. A deep dependency and friendship grew with Jesus. I told Him everything. He became my best friend – a friendship that’s stayed with me all these years. How thankful I am now for that rough time. His mercy, grace, protection, and listening ear convinced me, life was so much bigger.
He did not leave me self-absorbed, He sought me out and shook me up! God’s true love, seeks to better us… make us more like Jesus. Sometimes that only comes through lonely places, and hard times.
ForGlorySake! -Anna
San Francisco 1985
