I remember hearing about how Lou Reed studied Tai Chi back in the early 90's when I first started studying. His fame and sincerity gave legitimacy to the art of Tai Chi when few people knew what Tai Chi was, or cared. "That's those slow movements the Chinese Elders do in the park down in the city?"
On August 3, 2019 my students and I had the honor of demonstrating the Wu Chan Taiji Dao form on the steps of the Brooklyn Public Library at the International Lou Reed Tai Chi Day.
"...the banality of ordinary life is replaced by the awe and grandeur of the soul." –Deng Ming-Dao, "365 Tao"
Karin Alpert (top row, 6th from the right) is an extraordinary person. Her son and daughter gifted her this sword and the Wu Chan Taiji Sword workshop I offered in May 2019. 10 weeks later, on August 3rd, 2019, she successfully performed Taiji Sword Form on the steps of the Brooklyn Public Library at the Lou Reed International Tai Chi Event.
Karin's story is a testament to the awesome grandeur of the human spirit as it triumphs over the ordinary banality of life—driven by her curiosity and her refusal to stay small and comfortable, inspired by her fellow student's struggles and triumphs, their encouragement, respect, and admiration. This success was also inspired by her son and daughter's respect, encouragement, and generous support. Together, we honored the dynamic energy that shines in Karin as she grows into an Energy Independent Shen Shing Martial Artist!
Here we are presenting Wu Chan Taiji as taught to me by my Shifu Wang Tian Min, a 19th Generation successor to the Chen family lineage and founder of the International Shen Shing Wu Chan Association.
Below are Liz, Gregg, Shifu Ed, our good friend Master Collin Wu, Karin and, of course, Avi!
Another great day in our Wuguan Life!