A Snowbird Teacher

This winter my husband and I officially became “snowbirds,” spending the winter in Mesa, Arizona, where the temperature hovers around 70 degrees Fahrenheit rather than minus 30 degrees Celsius (like it does in Saskatchewan). Why am I telling you this? 

I brought T’ai Chi Chih supplies with me to Arizona with the idea of starting classes. When we visited our RV resort last year, I noticed how much TCC could help the seniors. Within two weeks of the first session on January 6th, we had to move to a bigger space because we had over 30 participants. TCC has caught on like wildfire. It’s a challenge to teach first-timers along with those who started the first week. But so far, so good. Everyone realizes that I’m an accredited teacher, and they know the class has value. (I charge $2 per class.) People are free to come and go; missing a week is not a problem for them or me. 

Since people like to come early, I have chairs ready in a circle and we begin sitting with our feet flat on the floor – getting grounded and rooted while we listen to the CD, Justin Stone Speaks on TCC. I want participants to become familiar with Justin, and the question and answer part of this CD is invaluable. Then I read a section from the TCC photo textbook and make sure the students know that Justin demonstrates every movement in it. When I read from Spiritual Odyssey last week, it generated some good feedback. I’ve just ordered 20 DVDs so that students will have something to practice with when they return home. Hopefully they’ll contact teachers in their local areas so they can continue practicing during the summer months. One student even comes from Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, if you can believe it!

My personal practice has also really gained momentum. There is so much enthusiasm and energy at our sessions that I can hardly wait for Tuesdays. What is the saying? “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” Well teachers, there are a lot of students out there. What are you waiting for? As Justin says, “TCC is too great a gift not to share it with whoever shows an interest.” Let’s contribute something worthwhile. It has certainly worked for me and for my neighbors at Mesa Spirit RV Resort.