Two teachers write to Justin Stone about their personal progress

Dear Justin,

. . . Since I wrote to you last, my two July classes, and two September classes held outside went very well. What an experience! I had planned to take a month off from teaching to focus on my own practice and community presentations, however, two articles appeared in our area newspapers resulting in great interest. In October I needed to move my classes indoors, so now I am teaching at our University’s Health and Fitness Center in a nice conference room with large windows facing our beautiful Black Hills. Tuesday we watched an eagle struggle with the wind as we did Bird Flaps its Wings. Presently, I’m teaching four classes: two at the Health Center and two at a bank for employees during their noon hour. Local television plans to do a feature on my “Employee Wellness Through T’ai Chi Chih” Program the first week of December. (Timely for those who struggle with holiday stress!)

I am finding I need a period of time when I do not teach, as I notice my thoughts often drift during my practice to my students and how I might convey a concept to them more clearly. Hopefully, in December there will be some time to pause in my teaching.

I have been in a remission ever since I renewed my commitment to daily/twice a day practice of T’ai Chi Chih (a year ago). I am so grateful. Sometimes it takes a “crash” before we realize what T’ai Chi Chih is capable of doing if we are willing to make the commitment to it. My “battle” with my health problems has become less of a battle and more of a circular flow of strength and weakness that is less dysfunctional and of which I am more accepting. . . Anyhow, dear Justin, on this Thanksgiving Day, I have so very much to be thankful for and you are very much a part of that!

Fondly,

– Jan Marshall-Thoreen

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Dear Justin,

Wishing you continued good health, happiness and joy . . . I have found your method of meditation to be very helpful in “stilling the gypsy mind.” I have been practicing this inner quiet of MU SHIN for 8 1/2 years on a daily basis. Not sure if I’ve attained anything close to BLISS, but the fruits of this quiet centering time have brought about a greater awareness of the Divine in my life, a deep centeredness, joy and peace. In the Christian tradition we call this “Centering Prayer” – simply being present to THE PRESENCE without thought. Your description of meditation in the VFJ – June ’97 issue is excellent. Then to let go of the desire to let go.

Know that you remain in my prayers and hold a special place in my heart.

In love, gratitude & joy,

– Sr. Antonia [Cooper]