The last class of the Spring 2015 quarter was concluded last night. As a teacher, I feel the energy of completion and accomplishment. For the students who finished the class, I celebrate their perseverance and hard work: at the end of class I thanked them all for their participation. For the students who dropped out, I wish them well and hope they return to class in the future.
Last night I sat on the deck in the warm eastern Washington twilight and reflected on the Spring classes. I felt gratitude to my students for all they taught me. Yes, I learned a great deal from my students. My effectiveness in class is a function of the balance of sharing what I know (yang) and of listening to the students (yin). I find it curious that the longer I teach, the more I value the receptive energy of teaching. My ability to communicate with the students is related to how well I am open to hearing (and seeing) them. Each class, I learn something new about myself or T’ai Chi Ch’uan. Sometimes it is a small thing, sometimes it is a major “ah-ha” understanding. Large or small, I am grateful for all the gifts my students provide.
Thank you.
Sifu Jim