By: Monika Napiorkowska
I rarely have the opportunity to talk with someone about what lies beneath the physical movements of Master Moy Tai Chi as taught by Master Moy. I have many questions and reflections of my own that I would like to understand more deeply. I read articles from old newsletters, highlight passages, and make notes from past workshops—what Master Moy said, the principles that guided him, what he considered important, and what he wanted to pass on to us.
What is especially meaningful to me is that some of you were close to Master Moy. You remember what it was like, how he demonstrated movements, how he communicated through gestures and even a simple look. I can only read about these things or hear them through your stories, and I treasure them deeply because I want to continue preserving the legacy he left us and to nurture what was so important to him—kindness and compassion. I often wonder what it all truly means. I feel that I am constantly discovering new layers of what this path really is.
More and more, I see that beyond the physical benefits, there is something much deeper—the spiritual aspect of Tai Chi, connected with kindness, compassion, and the way we relate to ourselves and to others. For me, this is the heart of Master Moy Tai Chi and what makes it so unique. Master Moy Lin Shin often emphasized these values, and I believe that was no coincidence.
What brings me the greatest joy is seeing people leave my classes calmer than when they arrived. Knowing that they feel safe, that they are not being judged, and that they can simply be themselves. That, even for a little while, they are able to put down the burdens that each of us carries from time to time. That is something of immense value to me.
I also believe that kindness can be learned in the same way as Tai Chi—one small step at a time. It begins with being gentle with our own bodies, accepting our abilities, our limitations, and our illnesses. From there, this attitude naturally extends into our relationships with others—we become more patient, less judgmental, more attentive, and more open. And perhaps that is the moment when Tai Chi stops being only a practice in the training hall and begins to become a way of life.
I believe more and more strongly that this attitude of kindness, compassion, and acceptance has a profound effect on our health. It not only helps the body relax but also brings peace to the heart and mind. Perhaps that is why Master Moy Tai Chi can touch people so deeply.
I think materials like these are especially valuable for newer assistant instructors and instructors. They help us better understand not only the history of Master Moy Tai Chi and Master Moy, but also his message and the origins of many of the principles we follow. Of course, this is only my personal perspective, but I truly believe that sharing experiences and having these conversations is deeply important.
So thank you for every memory, every comment, every photograph, and every post. To me, they are truly invaluable.
By: Joseph Karner
Monika, thank you for this heart felt response! Considering you never met Master Moy, your impressions that come from your heart are very accurate. He was a Teacher of Compassion and Love expressed through his lineage and culture. I knew and worked for him 8 years until his passing. He elevated my life and many others to levels that we could never have never reached on our own. I will be making a Facebook series called “What did Master Moy Teach” where I try to share the words and actions I and others remember he taught to his many students so people such as yourself can still touch his Teaching in your own way. Hope to have the 1st video posted in August. All the best to you!!
Translation by Jordi Awarita, Cathy Filion