My Journey

About three years ago I was introduced to T’ai Chi Chih and was quite intrigued by the gentle movements and the philosophy. This began my journey; now I am an accredited teacher (November 2004) and have completed teaching two 8-week courses.

While preparing myself and attending many training sessions, I was touched by those who taught me, encouraged me and were with me on this journey. The practice of T’ai Chi Chih has given me an inner peace, enhanced my life and helped me to look inside myself and smile. As I continue my journey in T’ai Chi Chih, I realize the impact it has made on life’s journey for me.

In April I attended a retreat at Stella Maris in New Jersey and was inspired to write this poem. Sitting alone on the beach, my pen began to move easily on the paper. I would like to share my thoughts with you.

Seeking serenity,
My steps are deliberate, almost urgent.
Yearning the quiet,
I quicken the pace.

Thoughts come and go so fast,
from all directions.
My mind is racing, tumbling.
I need to breathe.

I study the horizon before me
Where water meets sky.
The sun glistens on the water.
I settle in and begin to breathe.

My toes connect
with the rough grains of sand.
I tilt my head back.
My eyes turn upward.
I see an endless expanse of blue sky above.
I breathe and I close my eyes.

I feel the ocean breeze;
it brushes gently across my weary face.
I feel the sun;
it tenderly caresses my face with warmth.
I relax and I breathe.

I smell the comforting salty air.
I breathe again and listen.
I hear the sea gull’s distant cry,
its lonely calling.
I breathe more deeply and
continue to listen.

I hear the rhythm of the waves;
I hear the momentum rise, the power build.
I hear the crash against the shore
then the calm, the peace
as the water is gently pulled away.
I breathe with the rhythm of the waves.

Ah! The possibility exists here, in this place
beside the ocean’s roar,
amidst the sights and sounds.
Much is happening but nothing is
happening.
There is sound, but it is quiet.

My eyes are closed
Yet I see inside myself now.
I listen to my own breathing;
I hear my own voice.
My soul is quiet and peaceful.
My breathing is rhythmic and fulfilling.

I am deep within myself.
My thoughts are in this moment.
I am content to be with me.
Serenity exists.