Every Monday night at 7:00 sharp, the ballroom inside Croasdaile Village Retirement Community comes alive with the quick beat of samba music, the seductive croon of saxophones, and the gentle lilt of rumba. The Croasdaile residents who have been waiting patiently along the walls of the spacious room move to the dancefloor, laughing and chatting with one another. They arrange themselves into two straight rows, and then, awaiting further instruction, look to their leader: Mr. Peter DiFalco. Mr. DiFalco was a celebrated dancer, choreographer, and dance teacher in New York City for over 60 years, but has since retired to Croasdaile Village. At the age of 92, Peter DiFalco continues to share his love and passion for dance by teaching a weekly dance class for other residents.
Mr. DiFalco's story both inspired and moved me. I am so fortunate to have been given the opportunity to get to know this talented, wise, and compassionate man. Throughout the process of learning Mr. DiFalco's life story, he was able to teach me more about the world than I could have learned in any classroom. Thank you, Mr. DiFalco, for welcoming me into your home, your community, and your life, but above all, thank you for your friendship.