One Perspective

As a co-chair I ponder how to best approach the task of planning an annual conference that brings our T’ai Chi Chih community together. I am in the presence of many whose years of experience in attending and planning conferences far exceed my own. There are a thousand details. What can I lend to the process? How can I best support my senior co-chair, my local community and that of the greater TCC community?

My inner search provides me with two answers. The first answer is on an individual level: for me to operate from inner sincerity – teh. I do this because it is who I am, and it is critically important for me to give back. I received so much during my journey to become a teacher. I was welcomed into the local community by warm hearts, open arms and loving spirits. And I received invaluable guidance from many around the country as I participated in workshops, retreats, conferences, mission statements and more. The second answer speaks to the partnership with my co-chair. She is my teacher and friend, and we are on this journey together. In our discussions we agree to always work from the heart with integrity and to stay grounded. It becomes our mantra – before every phone conversation, during every meeting and in every communication sent to others.

We set an intention for attendees to experience both personal and professional growth. We want people to walk away feeling the time spent was worthwhile and the information gained helpful to them and their students. Feedback from previous conferences was extremely helpful. We knew what was working, what wasn’t so popular, whom people wanted to hear from and what people wanted more of. So along with our team members we began to plan.

“Serenity In the Midst of Activity” – the voice and intent of Seijaku – was one I was not intimately familiar with … but learned quickly. We heard “keep it simple,” “don’t get too fancy,” “we’ve done that before,” “that won’t work because,” “we should do this because,” “who’s decision is this,” “I’ll help,” “I can’t be there.” We had challenges – with people, agreements not kept, communications, venue changes and in planning committee members, speakers, scheduling. We had challenges on personal levels within our planning group – with health issues, family and work schedules, the death of loved ones. There were many unexpected bumps in the road. Hearts got bruised, egos wounded, tears spilled. But we continued to work from our hearts with integrity, and we stayed grounded.

So where is the joy in all of this? The conference unfolded as it was meant to. It was joyful, energizing, professional, substantive, spiritual.

But the greater joy comes from the unexpected gifts one sees with 20/20 hindsight. I experienced personal and professional growth on many levels by having been part of it. I learned from my co-chair, the planning team, speakers, our guide, trainers and attendees. My lessons are directly from those who truly practice:

• Setting aside ego, letting go of self.

• Teh: inner sincerity and working from the heart.

• Unconditional love and support.

• Staying grounded.

• Being present and living in the moment.

• Prajna: there is that within you which knows.

• Words of wisdom: trust, let go, all will unfold as it is meant to be, be well, remember who you are, remember the intentions, wishing you Peace and all Good.

• The TCC vision and mission statements.

• Being “Encircled in Chi.”

I found great wisdom, kindred spirits and enlightened souls among you. Some know who you are. For others, pleases know that our paths crossed so that I might learn from you. There is beauty, grace, laughter, joy, and love in our community. For those who attended, my heartfelt thanks and deepest gratitude for all that you gave simply by your presence.