Check-Ins By “The Guys” About Their TCC Class

My practice allows me to make choices, not react. It is such a big part of my life. I see how we each have a story that will benefit others. I feel like I can be a part of life. T’ai Chi Chih helps me to get away from the madness of life, to a place where I can feel who I really am.

– George R.

I’ve spent 19 years in different prisons, taking different classes. I came to Folsom and felt frustrated because I didn’t feel led, called to do anything. Then GR told me to try this class. He kept nagging me, so I figured I’d just do one class. Well this class has been a saving grace. It is like I’ve found why I’m at Folsom, what I’m here for. I feel the Chi flowing; it’s amazing. I’ve tried to explain it to my family. They aren’t sure what to think of it, but I hope to give them a taste of it.

– Lonyae T.

When I was checking out the flyer for this class, the other guys were saying, “Aw, that’s just a bull-*#^! class,” but I signed up anyway. The slow movements shift me to a good place, where I feel peace. There is a huge burden lifted off me. I have met a lot of good friends in here and have learned how to relate to people from diverse backgrounds.

– Thornton W.

This practice has given me an experience I’ve never had in my life: a peace of mind that gets me through my day. This is such a stressful place but this class helps me to get through it.

– Raymond M.

I’ve been doing this class for a few years, and it helps me to keep growing. Life just gets better and better. I get serenity, a sense of groundedness and stability. I learn to grasp the Now, to be content in the moment.

– Rick M.

I’ve been in class three months but I’ve been reading up on Taoism. I feel the Chi and it’s amazing. My fingertips begin to sweat. It’s this icy, hot feeling. I showed Mari because I was so excited about it. I love the diversity of this class. It takes me beyond cultural boundaries and connects me on a spiritual level with you guys.

– Aben A.

I’ve been doing this practice for 10 years, and it’s been the most life changing class. It’s better than all the other courses in prison put together. In four weeks I’ll find out if I’m leaving this place. When I’m on the outside, I want to pay for the cost of this banquet.

– Harvey J.

This is very new, but I definitely feel like something is here. Something is happening. I notice that out there (on the yard) I’m getting angry faster. I feel more emotional. But in here, in this class, something happens. This is something I’ve been looking for, for a long time. It’s a way to feel happy. It’s what’s been missing in my life. Something I need no matter how my day goes.

– Richard P.

We sit here together and we are a circle of light. This morning during this share, and in class, I’ve received so much from everyone here. It fills up my tank and brings joy to a hollow world. I give thanks to you teachers, and this circle of guys.

– Tyrone J.

Prison is a very adverse environment with a lot of stress. I can get pretty angry – rageful – but here I can get myself grounded and balanced. I find that center. There is so much that goes on in my mind, and this class really helps me out.

– Herman R.

What comes to mind, above all else, as I sit here again with all of you, is transformation. A few days ago I attended the funeral of my first TCC teacher, my teacher of 23 years. She requested that her memorial begin with 10 minutes of TCC, and so I had the privilege of leading that practice. She has transformed from her body, this vehicle, to her next adventure. And now I’m here with you, another day of transformation. And on Saturday it is World T’ai Chi and Qigong Day, a global day of practice, meditation, prayer and healing. It certainly is a powerful week for me.

– Sandy