Reflections and Memories with T’ai Chi Chih

Graceful Conclusion
This issue contains many reflections, understandings, and experiences with T’ai Chi Chih (TCC) movements, “coming to a graceful conclusion.” One of Justin’s most effective teaching methods was through the use of repetition. And he always used this phrase when practicing with us. When I queried my computer for all the instances of this phrase, across all of his books and articles, it turned up 441 instances.

Senior Teachers
The Q&As with senior TCC teachers continue to be two great ones. Ann Rutherford (accredited in 1998) spent most Saturdays meditating at Justin’s house and attending tesho after dinner out with the group. Ann also worked very closely with Justin and Amy Tyksinski to transcribe and edit Gateway to Eastern Philosophy & Religion. Tara Stiles was one of TCC’s earliest accredited teachers (1978) and recollects TCC’s very earliest days.

Postcards from Justin
Justin often communicated by typed index cards that served as postcards. Sometimes, teachers were lucky enough to get his hieroglyphic scribblings. Teacher Mary Wichmann has shared a series of them in this issue, along with the prompts that preceded or responded to his.

If you have postcards from Justin that you think the community would enjoy, that offer a glimpse into his teachings or him as a human being, The Vital Force welcomes them.

I received hundreds of notecards from Justin over a period of 30 years. They were always Zen riddles, on the surface saying one thing and below the surface another. Sometimes the riddle was immediately clear, sometimes its meaning would appear when least expected.

Teacher Email Signatures
What’s the easiest and most effective way to share your teacher listing page and promote your classes? Sign every email with your teacher URL, i.e., taichichih.org/teacher/kim-grant. It’s amazing how many people are curious and click through.

Caption Correction: In the February issue, on page 16, the participants are doing Joyous Breath, not Rocking Motion.