Carleton T'ai-Chi class...THANK YOU!!!!

There is an old saying that when the student is ready the master will appear. I found this to be true in my own life. I've also found the opposite, when the teacher is ready, the students appear! Since September I've been teaching T'ai-Chi to group of 13-28 students through the Carleton College rec center. I found a group of students, who appeared, and have greatly added to my teaching enthusiasm and inspiration. A few had done T'ai-Chi  before but many of them were brand new. What I find so fascinating about this group is that they are willing to try anything! I have had them do the "Cloud Hands" posture and the "Golden Rooster Standing on One Leg" posture not only many times, but many repetitions with their eyes closed! They practice, they work, they laugh, and they truly appreciate the healing benefits of this ancient art.

Last week I was asked to come early, and before class I was treated to a holiday concert. Five members of the class (Wu Feng, the five breaths!) played instruments while the rest sang a Christmas Carol with the lyrics adapted to fit their T'ai-Chi class experience. I admit I was moved and even teary-eyed. Of course when the concert was over we went right to work. That's just the way they are. Below are the lyrics.

(To the tune of"Let it Snow")

Oh, the weather outside is frightful,

But our class is so delightful,

And since we've no place to go

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

Ray's T'ai-Chi means we are improving

Because he has us moving

We're smooth and soft and slow

As we practice the moves we know.

When we finally learn the form

Then we'll know this is truly the norm

So if you'll really help me now

Then I can say " I know how!"

The class is slowly learning

And my friend, we're still a yearning

Just to do our best, and so

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

Without the help and encouragement from Jane, Larry, Renée, and Mikki, I would never have found this group of amazing students. What does the future hold? For sure a demonstration at Chinese New Year…