Memories (November 2015)

The conference was set in the Black Hills in North Carolina. The scenery seemed to invoke thoughtfulness, and for me, created a time to be mindful in every way. Life has been difficult in so many ways these last years. Thank goodness for my T’ai Chi Chih practice, which keeps me grounded.

I normally attend conference every other year. For some reason, this past April, I was spiritually encouraged to attend this year even though I had attended in 2014. I am so happy I followed my guidance. There was something so very different about this conference. The accommodation was not the caliber of Lied Lodge in Nebraska, nor was the food what we enjoyed at St Mary’s College in northern California, but the camaraderie and support made the difference and seemed to envelope me each wonderful day.

Maybe it was because the conference was smaller and more intimate. Maybe it was because old friends I had not seen in years were there. Or maybe it was simply where I am at this time in my life, and I needed my T’ai Chi Chih community around me.

The program and speakers were excellent.

We never know what we mean to others or how we touch their lives. For me, this year, I was touched by so many of the participants. I met, and was able to speak with, more teachers than ever before. It felt like we had time to really connect. Did they change? Was I the one who changed? Or is it the Chi changing us all as we move through these very unusual times.

The next time you are moved to attend conference, follow your spiritual guidance and pay no attention to the discouraging reasons your mind provides to put off attendance. Being at conference might be exactly what you need to recharge your practice and your life. Namaste.