Vice-President Feels Convention Fever

By Geno, IJA Vice-President, Los Angeles, CA

 

The facts and figures of a convention are import­ant, but they are merely academic. Beyond the specific details and individual events, it is the over­all concept and prevailing mood that determines the success or failure of a convention. It is this essence, this intangible chemistry, that makes the annual IJA Convention such a. beautiful and rewarding event.

 

Conventions have a holiday atmosphere, but also possess significant value to jugglers who are interested in expanding their awareness of the state of the art.  Through workshops and general observation, it offers a unique perspective to those who seek self evaluation and growth, as well as a chance to make useful contacts and lasting friendships.

 

When 500 or more jugglers gather at a single location, the result is a phenomenal cohesion. Differences in age and nationality are surpassed by a strong common interest. The openness and sharing are heartwarming, especially in these anxious times of wortd crisis and isolation.

 

As the convention expands in size each year, so does the impact it has on the community in which it is held. Juggling is an infectious positive activity. This year, Fargo awaits us eagerly in expectation that our presence will be an uplifting experience. There is no doubt that last year's parade through Amherst was one of the highlights of 1979 in that town.

 

Why am I seemingly foaming at the mouth over all this? Because the annual convention IS important. Because juggling WILL become a national pastime in this decade. Because the IJA IS maturing as an organization. Because I FEEL COMPELLED to convey to our members and the general public the excitement of all those involved in organizing this convention.

 

As jugglers, whether hobbyists or working professionals, we all stand to gain by taking some time to gather together and observe each other strive for excellence in our own unique ways.   It is a time of optimism and inspiration. While

most of the world suffers with the idea that "what goes up, eventually must come down," jugglers are busy picking up their varied props and throwing them into the air. Our differences and idiosyncrasies are the source of our value to each other and to the world. When we all stand in a large space and battle gravity at the same time, the effect is weightless freedom. It is a time to take pride in our accomplishments and also set new goals for future aspirations.

 

No, I am not subtly trying to sell the annual convention to anyone. I am merely trying to capture the essence of it and share the wonderful feelings I have received from attending a few of them myself. Fargo may be a long way for most of us to travel, but distances can be dwarfed by the fulfillment of getting to the right place.