How wonderful it is to be around like-minded people, who desire to have strong bodies and minds, who work towards a balance between ‘doing’ and ‘being’ everyday, who insure they have some quiet amidst the noise, who enjoy and live peacefully with nature, who nurture cooperation and acceptance of others.
Such was that experience at the week-long Tai Chi workshop in Connecticut three weeks ago. Master Trainers taught, students learned and together we questioned, gained finesse and laughed at ourselves sometimes. If there was any competition it seemed to be individual, within ourselves. Why can’t I get this move better? Why do I seem to be slower at learning than my classmates? In our culture, we not only want to ‘get it’, but we want to get it ‘right now’. A reassuring principle of Tai Chi is allowing and letting go. Gaining patience. We try to let go of tension, expectations, perfection, comparing with others. It’s a process. It takes time. It takes committing to a discipline of a new way of thinking and new ways of moving — slowly and with intention.
That commitment to a new way of thinking and moving may require a change of our patterns and habits. Taking the first step towards change is critical. Sticking with it is the challenge.
Arlene, You offer a helpful reminder that change comes about usually in increments and by intentionality. Thanks!