Transformation

Progress in Tai Chi does not simply depend upon relaxation – the removal of tension. It depends mainly on the persistent practice of a certain form of concentration that one can only learn from a teacher. Externally this concentration takes the shape of a Form of movements – a sequence designed to touch and work with certain energies that are considered essential to the development and cultivation of spirit. Internally this concentration is a listening of your energy to other energies, a listening that transforms and is transformed in turn by that to which it listens. We call this communication. Real communication is not just the passage of information or energy back and forth, it is transformation – changing the hearts and minds of all involved. Spirit, being the energy of engagement, gives the possibility of a vital grip on reality. It's fingers insinuate, stimulate and awaken. Often this is all that is required for transformation to be kick-started into action. Transformation – change – will only happen if it is ready to happen and if it wants to happen – if it is almost inevitable given the circumstances and the company. In such cases only the lightest of touches is necessary – just enough to start the process.