"The superior man perseveres long in his course, adapts to the times, but remains firm in his direction and correct in his goals." - I Ching
Success Story: John M.
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| Photo of John (2012) |
This month we congratulate John and all his hard work. John started with us 4 years ago doing Tai Chi at the age of 66. He walked in frustrated with no longer being able to reach his own shoes. If I recall, he as having trouble reaching his knees back then. John wanted to improve his flexibility, balance, and find a good exercise routine that he could do a couple times/week.
He took up routine daily practice in Tai Chi, and Qi Gong, and practiced frequently enough to lose weight with Tai Chi training alone. Well...and giving up "sitting on the couch eating potato chips", as he likes to put it.
Shortly after Jon started, he convinced his wife Jane to join him (and later their 2 grandsons). The two of them have attended classes 3 to 5 times/week ever since. After a couple years of Tai Chi they decided to add Kickboxing and even Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to their class routines.
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| John on the left. His first Mountain Retreat with us in 2008. |
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| Another shot of John and Jane. (2008) |
I remember a few years ago when the hikes we went on were fairly benign and John would be hard pressed to keep up. He pushed through anyway like a real trooper, but you could always tell it was difficult for him. Not anymore! Last year we ended up on a rigorous climb somewhat by accident. John went as far as everyone else at 70 years old.
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| John - slim and trim, and flexible to boot! |
They have seen huge improvements in their strength, stamina, and more. John still works diligently at perfecting his Tai Chi, and continuing the journey towards mastery.
A funny story from last year:
John was in the parking lot getting ready to hike up a mountain with his family. He was wearing a shirt that said - "Be Monster Strong". A cocky young 20 something male walked by and read his shirt. He decided to make a sarcastic remark instead of minding his own business - "How's that working out for you?" as he points at John's shirt. John let it go, being the better man, and instead enjoyed his sweet reward when he reached the summit only to turn around 20 minutes later and see the huffing and wheezing young gentleman arrive at the top of the mountain.
I love that story. Hats off to John for all his dedication and commitment to self-improvement, and crushing so many goals!!! On top of it all, he's a great person to share in a conversation with, and a true pleasure to have in class. Way to go John! Keep at it!
Truly a testament that age is no barrier to change and improvement!
Update (7/17/12): John just sent this to me - "
Feb 9, 2008 I recorded a weight of185 Lbs and a waist of 38”. This morning I weighed in at 140 Lbs with a 32 in waist. I have lost a total of 45 Lbs. and 6” at the waist."
Photos courtesy of Max Kotchouro
