How low can you go?

Those of us with a few years under our belts remember the Limbo, with everyone bending backwards trying to get under the pole and the person capable of bending furthest–without falling over– winning the game. Hawaiin music, tropical drinks of one kind or another. Lots of laughter.

These days, with all the political chaos, it sure feels like we’re in limbo and I ask myself how low will some of these politicians sink. They go down, down, down, and when they do, perhaps they feel like they’ve won, but oh man, the rest of us will be losers.

As a tai chi practitioner and teacher, it seems inappropriate for me to write about the political scene, but it simply can’t be ignored. What it can be is at least balanced by other kinds of activities: tai chi, dancing, writing, drawing, qigong, swimming, long walks in a bright snow-filled landscape or on a beach somewhere. Deep breaths. Lots of them.

Hold onto your balance and then dive back in. Decide where you can make meaningful donations of time or money. Breathe again. Read the news. Breathe. Return to tai chi….

Hold your values close and your friends closer!

Please tai chi–keep me calm

Tai chi’s capacity to focus our attention, bring serenity and mindfulness is truly outstanding. Yet there are times when its temporary help isn’t nearly enough. I know its deemed inappropriate in a place like this to get political, but people, I tremble when contemplating what a Trump presidency would mean. Please, please, please do whatever you can to make sure this doesn’t happen.

If I have offended you with this post, sorry. But this is just too important a matter for silence. My values push me to teach tai chi and bring its healthy benefits to as many people as I can. My values let me honor my family, the natural world around me, all those who strive for peace. And my values will not allow silence about an election that is so important.

Do what you can. Thanks.