Readers Respond (June 2000)

I thought that the March 2000 Vital Force was the best issue I’ve ever read. It was packed full of meaty articles and letters, and the poems were great. I’m really amazed at how organized the editor, Noel, is, and it shows in the order and thought that go into such an issue. I can’t imagine anyone who won’t get a great deal out of it. Thank you!

– Justin Stone
Albuquerque, NM

I always enjoy the Folsom prison articles you provide in the VFJ. They are a status report for us – and always encouraging. I know great things will come from Jim Hecker’s work there with Ed [Altman] and Tara [Stiles]’ support and guidance. (I have thought, perversely, that if I was in prison I would have the time to focus on TCC and meditation… boy is that weird?!?!) I always return to Justin’s comment about practicing at 42nd and Broadway versus the Himalyas – and realization achieved in active life being far more powerful – and Seijaku – serenity in the midst of activity…The answer is there! Fun stuff! . . .

– Guy Kent
Albuquerque, NM

When visiting New York in late March, I joined one of Carolyn Perkins’ TCC groups that meets Monday and Friday. On my way to the second session I realized that I had left home without the address. But I thought “Hey I can remember the street.” I knew I was in the right area, but all those concrete canyons began to look alike. As 10 a.m. approached I said aloud, “I need Carolyn or a phone book.” I was halfway across a major intersection when I saw Carolyn walking toward me. I did an abrupt about-face, saying, “Hi Carolyn, am I glad to see you!” As we chatted on the way to the session, Carolyn told me that she rarely came the direction and street where we met. Hail to the Chi.

– Neena Mitchell
Syracuse, NY

Hi Noel, Are you aware that the Cincinnati crowd have not received their [March] Vital Force yet [as of March 30]? I’m told that other areas have had theirs for weeks. If you know about it or it’s only recently ‘in the mail’ it’s OK. You don’t need to reply unless you think there’s a problem. We’re all looking forward to seeing Ed in a couple of weeks [for the TCC Workshop April 15]. Thanks.

– Susan Evans
Cincinnati, OH

To the T’ai Chi Chih Community,

I would like to thank Ed Altman and Dan Pienciak our host for one of the most profound weeks of my life. April 24-28th was the first T’ai Chi Chih Teachers Training of the millenium. I, along with nine ladies are now accredited TCC instructors. I would like to thank Justin (as he is affectionately called) for his gift. It has made a difference in my life. I hope to meet all the family at the Conference in July. Until then. Patience.

– Grady F. Anderson
Nanuet, NY

A T’ai Chi Chih student of mine recently had an MRI as a followup to brain surgery. After getting an excellent report, my student asked her radiologist/oncologist if there was anything she could do to improve her balance and coordination, which she had had a problem with since the surgery. Her doctor told her that she could help herself by taking yoga or T’ai Chi. She told him she was taking T’ai Chi Chih, and he said, “That’s perfect!” He said that the slow, graceful movements were just what she needed to help improve her overall balance and coordination.

– Donna McElhose
Wildwood, IL