Newly accredited teacher sees how much more she can learn in future

Probably the most important thing I learned in the teacher training was how necessary it is to continue improving and deepening my T’ai Chi Chih practice now [that] I’ve taken the course. Yes, I have some specific items to work on. I also am beginning to understand the process for refining my movements even more, for finding other areas of focus as time passes. T’ai Chi Chih itself will show me if I pay attention. I also need to go where I can observe and request corrections from Ed and Justin Stone (whom I look forward to meeting in person).

The sense of community in our class was wonderful. We supported each other, helped each other, apploauded each other. I’m honored to have been a member of this class.

Ed Altman’s teaching was clear and vivid. His valuable corrections were given with care and concern, and his movements are a pleasure to watch. He shared stories of his own trials and tribulations, encouraging us also to grow by learning from our rough spots, our funny glitches, and also from our successes (which will in turn eventually need refinement). In this class, I saw many reasons why he is [the] Head of T’ai Chi Chih.

The auditing instructors were a great boon. I am especially grateful to Elissa Maguire for arranging the course (doing successfully all that detail stuff she dislikes). Her coaching was very helpful. And she also shared so frankly what she too was learning, that I for one am inspired to audit on a regular basis.

Roberta Taggart is my referring teacher and mentor. She came from California for three days to audit. She spent considerable time working with the class members, and I know from experience how valuable her assistance is. Her discussion and demonstration of seated T’ai Chi Chih was impeccable.

The presentations were a major hilight of the course. We got to know each other, and we shared ideas that will help us all to increase the practice of T’ai Chi Chih in our own communities. Personally, the experience of performing T’ai Chi Chih as part of a heartfelt prepared talk allowed me to integrate my past in the business world (doing many presentations) with this wonderful new direction. The bits and pieces came together, and I feel whole and ready to begin my first steps on my new path as an accredited T’ai Chi Chih teacher.