Acceptance

Raised in a strong Mormon family, I left the church at age 20 resentful and angry. These feelings spilled over to encompass any organized religion. I did a good job of staying away from anything that looked/smelled/tasted/felt like religion, until T’ai Chi Chih.

I was continually challenged because most of our events are held at religious retreat centers. One of the first things I would do upon entering my assigned bedroom was take any religious icons off the walls and put them in a drawer along with any religious materials. Over time (a long time) I recognized my feelings had softened. At some point I realized this was no longer an issue for me. Items with religious meaning had no effect on me one way or the other. How I have changed – could it be TCC? 

When Sister Antonia was appointed Guide of TCC she asked that Pam Towne and I work closely with her. The three of us make a point of spending a few days together at least two times a year. We practice together and discuss TCC matters, but also take time just to enjoy our friendship. Years ago, in my wildest dreams, I never would have guesses that I would be hanging out with a Sister of the Cloth and enjoying myself. In fact, over the years I have stayed with other TCC religious sisters in their homes and convents and felt completely comfortable, except for watching my P’s and Q’s.

When Sr. Antonia was appointed to lead the community I had reservations. Would she be able to keep her religious beliefs separate from TCC? After all, it is not just a commitment to a religion but it is her life. Will she be able to balance her religious duties and her TCC responsibilities? Will I have to watch my P’s and Q’s around her or can I be myself? 

My concerns were unfounded. In the seven years we have worked together I do not know of an incident where her religious practices have interfered or crossed the line in dealing with her TCC responsibilities. I have found I can always be myself around her, even with my rough edges and sometimes-colorful language.

I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that TCC is responsible for this softening of my attitude toward organized religion. The practice is helping me to recognize we all travel our own path and to accept the journey of others. My job is to pay attention to my journey. TCC practice has cultivated awareness in me that I am just beginning to see/feel/understand. It is a practice that cultivates acceptance and love.