Aloha Everyone,
People who practice T'ai Chi Ch'uan generally are very welcoming to newcomers. You can immediately spot the "leader" or the teacher of the group as he or she usually stands in front of the group so the rest may follow the slow, gentle, flowing yet specific and intricate moves.
I asked for a permission to join the group. With a kind and bright smile, Mo nodded his head and invited me to join.
The t'ai chi form they were practicing was the Simplified Tai Chi, Standard Beijing Taijiquan 24 Form. I recognized and was able to follow most of the individual movements. The time I spent with them was not very long. I only caught about 1/2 of one set and one full set. But the joy I experienced was immense.
The group practices In the courtyard of the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center. Mo mentioned that their master is Misako Tsuchiya, certified teacher of Tiai Chi Qi gong with the Alexander Technique.
Meeting (left to right) Kei, Mo, Elias and Tom truly made my day. The only disappointment is that I will not be able to accept their invitation to join their regular practice.
Aloha -- Cathi
