Emily Lee
“Draw in the breath of Heaven, root yourself in the strength of the Earth, and cultivate longevity through gentleness”.
These words from Grandmaster Cheng Man-Ching have remained in my heart for many years.
More than forty years ago, my husband returned to Taiwan teaching at National Taiwan University and our family accompanied him. During that special season of life, I was blessed with the opportunity to study Cheng Style Tai Chi. I devoted myself wholeheartedly to learning, making the most of every day. After returning to the United States, I never stopped practicing. Tai Chi gradually became part of my daily life, and for decades I have practiced it almost every day.
Today, in my eighties, I continue to teach Cheng Style Tai Chi for one hour each week at a senior center as a volunteer. Whenever I see my students become steadier on their feet, more relaxed in their movements, and happier in their hearts, I am reminded that Tai Chi is much more than physical exercise. It brings balance, peace, confidence, and hope.
When I teach, I remind myself that I am not simply demonstrating movements. I am sharing a way of living. Tai Chi teaches us that true strength is expressed through gentleness, that slowing down is not weakness, and that every breath offers an opportunity to find harmony within ourselves.
I do not expect my students to become masters. My greatest wish is simply that they become healthier, happier, and more confident as they grow older.
Later in life, I also discovered the joy of painting, knitting, and writing. Over time, I realized that Tai Chi, knitting, art, and writing all share the same spirit. They require patience, quietness, perseverance, and a heart that is willing to give.
I have come to believe that the greatest treasure in life is not how much we possess, but how much we are willing to share. To pass on what we have learned with love and without expecting anything in return is one of life’s deepest blessings.
I still practice Tai Chi every day, and I always look forward to meeting my students each week. Watching them improve little by little fills my heart with gratitude.
My prayer is that this spirit of “teaching through gentleness” will continue to be passed from one generation to the next, so that more people may discover strength through gentleness, peace through balance, and joy through serving others.
Above all, I thank God for allowing me to walk this path. Every lesson I teach, every sweater I made, every painting I create, and every story I write is my humble offering of gratitude for His abundant grace.
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