Step Softly

The Zen master Ling Chi said that the miracle is not to walk on burning charcoal or in the thin air or on the water; the miracle is just to walk on earth. ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

I have been taking Tai Chi on Monday nights. It is often referred to as “walking meditation” because you really cannot multi-task and do Tai Chi, at least not in these early stages. I have found it very interesting and tonight I learned the first move that I really struggled to do because of my leg and foot issues. Tai Chi is supposed to help with balance among other things. I am hoping that with practice, I will become stronger and be able to do the moves that involve standing on one leg. Stepping softly has been a challenge for me as well but not quite like this particular move whose name I have forgotten.

I am a great multi-tasker but I am realizing more and more that I am not as successful as I used to be. Distractions throw me off the rails and I tend to not be as effective. Maybe this is just nature’s way of saying pay more attention to what you are doing in the moment.

I love the fact that for one complete hour, I live in the moment. I concentrate on the moves and my mind is totally free of anything that might be trying to call my name. Very few things in my life do that. I have an over-active mind. Interpreting is another activity that requires that intensity of presence. I love it when a book, film, or play can grab me and hold me in that way. I think Thich Nhat Hanh got it right—he is really a beautiful poet/writer—because the miracle of walking on earth is something else that sometimes captivates me so much that I can hardly breathe.

peace,

Suzanne