Intensity Grows

One of the wonderful benefits of practicing T’ai Chi Chih (TCC) is the intensity it gives to nature’s colors. Springtime masses of magenta azalea blossoms are so brilliant that they seem to stop the world. Kousa dogwood look poured out of a giant pitcher of cream, inviting me to jump in. Autumn blue sky reflects deeply in the heavenly blue morning glories growing up my garage. Practicing on my deck, I look out on a rock garden and see so many variations of green that my head can’t hold them all.

A feast for the eyes and soul: yellow marigolds, purple heliotrope, pink petunias, and blue browallia. And the birds: eastern blue birds with iridescent blue backs reflecting in the sun; Baltimore orioles with crisp orange flashing; American gold finches that are so yellow and pure that it’s unreal; and Mrs. Cardinal with her subtle shades every bit as beautiful as her flashier husband.

They are all so intensified they pop. But in popping, there is quiet, calm, and peace.