There are a great many things I want to say. I feel certain you will know what's in my heart.

The truth is a rare and precious thing. I want to thank you for so selflessly sharing the truth with others.

Although the martial arts knowledge has enriched my life immeasurably, I feel that this was a spiritual calling which led me to you.

I cannot ignore the signs, some very subtle, which have led me to Buddhism.

Be not be disheartened by the general complacency of the World. I am sure it is very difficult to hold such a valuable treasure and find most people are simply not interested. It is the nature of people to rise up but eventually return to where they started.

Please know there are still many persons who care and strive for high ideals. It is a more difficult path and most are content to stay where they are. But some are not.

I feel your destiny's calling you to a different more balanced place ($).

Thank you for everything you've given . And know it is appreciated.

Much gratitude,
Melinda L. Herbert (student 1998 - 2002)

2005

Date: Fri, 8 Apr 2005
From: Anoush V_______
Subject: Re: Tai Chi weight loss
To: Richard O'Connor

Hello!

Thank you for the information which followed with the feedback in the class today. I knew there
would be others interested in the same subject. (weight loss)

One of the hot topics most women are always interested in! I

try to do my Tai Chi almost every night in our back yard and it makes me more relaxed and I sleep better too. My two dogs also enjoy having me by them, specially, my puppy, who tries to follow my hands with every move I make. As I do my exercise I remember looking at the sky and watching the stars, as you mentioned, joining heaven and earth.

Life can be beautiful if people could realize it.

Thank you again for being a great teacher and a mentor.

Anoush

Richard O'Connor wrote:

Anoush,

Hello Ann:

Thanks again for your email.

I've found that weight loss is like quitting smoking.

Trying not to eat or trying not to smoke can seem like trying not to breathe.

I've found that success comes from having something better to do. Something better than smoking, and something better than eating...

That's how a "Tai Chi Lifestyle" can provide alternatives. Rather than smoking, do some exercise. Same with eating. You can't eat while doing Tai Chi. Smoking a cigarette would also seem out of place while practicing your Tai Chi.

So rather than quitting smoking or quitting eating, we just have something better to do.

And Tai Chi becomes more and more fun as you spend more and more time doing it.

I hope this answers your question and inspires you.

Sincerely,
Zhen Shen-Lang