Why I Practice (February 2016)

Grief is a journey with many layers. Sometimes it feels manageable and then there is sudden and surprising pain that takes your breath away. My T’ai Chi Chih practice has helped to carry me through it all. I have experienced so many deaths since my beloved Jim died on March 16, 2013. My mother-in-law is in the doorway ready to transition into her next journey reuniting her with her husband, sons, great-granddaughter, parents and siblings. TCC helps me remain grounded and not slip into depression or despair. I am able to assist other members of the family cope with the losses. 

It is difficult to remember life before TCC. I have been asked so many times, “How can you be so calm?” My answer is always the same: TCC. It anchors me to the earth. It keeps my emotions in check. It gives me space to breath before I respond to a situation or person. I am so very grateful for this wonderful gift. I am equally grateful for the TCC community of both teachers and students who have surrounded me during times of struggle and who have allowed me to be a support to other members of the community. 

In this new year I acknowledge the deep debt I owe to TCC. It is a gift worth preserving and promoting. I give thanks to Justin for originating this beautiful practice and to all the teachers who have passed it forward and are keeping the practice alive and well.