Gratitude, Once Again

BY GINNY MORGAN, ALBUQUERQUE, NM

Planning for Justin’s November 17th Celebration of Life started over a year ago with a simple idea from Sr. Antonia to honor his 91st birthday. This celebration, with attendees from all over the country, flowed with gratitude and joy. Because of Justin, who shared his photographs, poetry, and stories, the TCC Association could produce a narrated DVD/CD that briefly touches on highlights of his life. The CD has a poem read by professional actors of what Justin considers his best works, O Ye Restless Man and On the Mountains of the Moon. What better way to introduce students to the originator of T’ai Chi Chih. This will give you a glimpse of the essence of a true Renaissance man. Justin attended the daylong celebration that included two full TCC practices (including corrections by Justin) and a piano concert by Justin with original songs. Four of Justin’s favorite paintings hung for viewing.

The Albuquerque Teacher Training was held right before the Celebration of Life and graduated 16 new teachers. Justin’s traditional potluck birthday dinner, this time held at the Albuquerque Academy dining room to accommodated more guests, capped off the day. When Justin rose to speak at the microphone, he said: “The best advice I cangive you is to be grateful.”

Justin, we are grateful to you for T’ai Chi Chih, for sharing your life, and for teaching us that being grateful is what matters in life.

The DVD/CD of Justin’s life is available through the T’ai Chi Chih Center for $27 plus $3 for shipping. All proceeds benefit the center. The DVD is 17 minutes; the CD is10 minutes.Send checks (no credit cards please), payable to the TCC Association, to the TCC Center, Scottsdale Village, 3107 Eubank NE Suite 19, Albuquerque, NM 87111.