Letting it flow by letting it go in Saskatchewan

What a wonderful idea – to spend quality time with friends and new acquaintances in the beautiful snow-covered forest at the Franciscan Forest Sanctuary at Christopher Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada. And that is just what ten T’ai Chi Chih enthusiasts from as far away as Manitou Beach, Humbolt, Marengo, Meadow Lake, Prince Albert and four nearby neighbours did Feb. 16 and 17th with Sr. Viola Bens hosting.

Viola wrote of the experience: “I am awed at the transformation that happened in just 24 hours of practise. Thank you Justin for the gift you have given to us. TCC has become an indispensable part of my life. With the help of each other at this renewal we experienced refinement in the way we move but, more than that, a commitment to honor the Chi and be faithful to the practise of TCC. A special thanks to Pam who at the September Retreat in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan challenged us to strengthen our TCC community and to Donna Aldous for contacting teachers and students in the area.”

Student Ann Alphonse shared the following: “It was positive, relaxing, invigorating and came at just the perfect time for me to re-establish my practise.” Another student Leona Kelly felt that “…this refresher has certainly given me the confidence to make TCC practise part of my daily living. I realize there is so much to learn and the practise is up to me.”

“The atmosphere of caring and genuine loving was wonderful beyond expectation,” said student Wayne Cormier. He continued, “I found myself so enthusiastic about TCC that I was actually unconsciously doing it in my early sleep Wednesday night.”

Bob Dill said that for him “…without exception I learned not only from the qualified teachers, but from each and every student present. This brings out the truth of the old saying ‘No man is inferior to me in that I may learn from him.'” The theme “Let it Flow, by letting Go” was a great choice, teacher Byron Gill thought as he was able to enjoy the simple moment of being in the “Now.”

By the Thursday afternoon practise the transformation of the movements was nothing less than astounding. Everyone agreed that the energy at the Sanctuary inspired us all to improve and one could really feel the Chi flow. Teacher Cathy Brochu joined us for Thursday lunch and last practise and her energy just added to the whole. The experience was so joyful that it was agreed that a similar event will take place February 2006, so watch for further information.