Rachel Tice, a freshman at Mustang Mid-High, will be traveling to Beijing, China in July to dance in the Olympic festivals. Dove Dance in Oklahoma City, where Rachel studies dance from ballet to lyrical, was one of a select few chosen for the honor.

Rachel’s parents enrolled her in a dance class in the second grade in hopes of helping her overcome shyness. By third grade, Rachel knew she had found her calling.

“During my second year, I decided I had a heart for dance,” she said. “It’s not just something I enjoy. It’s something God has called me to do.”

Rachel found Dove Dance, a Christian-based dance studio, five years ago. She believes dancing is one of her ways to let her “light shine.”

“For me, dancing is more than dance, it’s me telling a story for what Christ has done in my life and for everybody,” she said. “Since the night I asked God into my heart, I have never been the same. I have joy. I have something to believe in ever day. I know at the end of the day I am saved by grace. I was just someone who accepted that, and I believe in Jesus Christ, that He died and rose again and that He’s my Lord and savior - that He’s my ultimate dad. That’s what Christ has done for me; He has given me something to live for.”

Rachel shared her faith with fellow students at Mustang Mid-High recently when she danced, and won, the MMH annual talent show. Rachel leaves July 22 for China. In addition to the Olympic festival, Rachel and 11 other dancers from Dove Dance will perform in schools and spend two days dancing in the streets of Hong Kong. The group will also volunteer at an orphanage for children with special needs.

Rachel plans to go to college for dance. She hopes to try her skills on Broadway and perhaps to eventually have a Christian-based dance studio of her own.