A Sensational Success

I can’t find words to describe how I felt about the T’ai Chi Chih (TCC) conference. From Eliza Fulton offering to coordinate with Anita Vestal assisting, we were off and running, assured that there would be a conference. The planning team soon came together, including 60 volunteers, and 163 teachers were in attendance. I am grateful to those who stepped up, each as important as the other, all with so much expertise. It filled my cup.

The conference offered the opportunity to connect with teachers I’ve not met or talked with in the past. Clicking on chat brought me to many old friends. Breakout sessions put together by chance offered interaction with new teachers and long-time teachers I probably wouldn’t have met otherwise. All so wonderful.

I’m amazed at how willing new teachers were to give presentations on wonderful subjects that they’re so passionate about. I admire their strength, courage, and wisdom. They added so much to the success of the conference.

Over the years I have noticed differences in our various TCC movements. There have been subtle changes among teachers (i.e., the placement of hands), and in observing those changes, often nothing was spoken. Or it might have been said that the difference was one teacher versus another remembering how Justin taught the movement. The teacher trainers are doing a wonderful job keeping teachers on track to maintain the purity of TCC as our originator, Justin Stone, desired.

I heard a new tip from Teacher Trainer April Leffler. She mentally places dimes on the soles of the feet, two at the ball of each foot and one in middle of each heel. This allows the student to mindfully go to the soles of the feet. As we moved, April would remind us of the dimes and instantly I would go to the soles of my feet.

A few presentations that I find myself reflecting back to are: “Embracing Emptiness” with Laurie Jacobi, “What is an Empty Cup in TCC Practice” with Patty Stupca, and Nancy Hebert sharing her passion for “A Balanced Life.” And thank you, KG, for sharing all the pictures of our handsome originator, Justin Stone.