Across The Universe

While sitting outside enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of another beautiful summer day, I began thinking about what to write for a “Pennsylvania Voices” section in The Vital Force. I wanted to focus on the idea that energy follows thought so I paged through several of Justin’s books in the hopes of using that as a springboard to dive further into the topic.

I read in Spiritual Odyssey about the “reciprocal character of Mind and Prana”(p. 86) and “the reciprocal relationship of Mind and Chi, a little-known fact of great importance” (p. 106) and felt the significance and truth of this. Yet there was nothing more to add.

I was then drawn to re-read letters that I had received from Justin during the years following my accreditation. I read each typed and hand written letter like a child opening gifts on Christmas morning. As I read each one, I began feeling expansive, loved, and deeply touched. My being quieted and I was moved to tears in an energy of reverence.

The words and messages were, of course, important and truly heartfelt. However, even more important than Justin’s words to me in his letters was the loving Chi I felt as I read them – and the absolute love and stillness I feel now as I write this. Energy does follow thought and travels through time and space.

With humility, respect and great appreciation… I am speechless.

Beginner’s Mind
By Jim Kaib, Norwood, Pennsylvania

Years ago, one of my teachers suggested that I come to each T’ai Chi Chih class with a beginner’s mind. As a teacher, I have repeated this to students attending retreats, workshops, and other events. I believe we, too, are better teachers when we adopt the same beginner’s mind.

One of my first teachers extolled the value of continuing to learn through ongoing classes because “things may creep into our practice.” This is valuable advice, and I am fortunate to live in a region with many other teachers and where multiple events are held annually.

In the early years after my accreditation, I audited accreditations, hoping to deepen and refine my own practice. However, I felt a responsibility to help candidates by looking for things that may have needed correcting. It was a great relief to see the invitation letter from Pam and Sandy to auditors this past year. It encouraged auditing teachers to use accreditation to explore their own practice, even as they are called on to assist candidates.

These opportunities keep my own practice fresh; when I teach, I’ve made the effort to ensure my own practice is a good example for my students. This also offers a chance to see and hear things differently than perhaps I was capable of as a student or teacher candidate. Whether attending a Prajna retreat, a retreat with Antonia, or an accreditation, TCC brings my attention to the value of maintaining a beginner’s mind.