Tai Chi at the End of Life, and Beyond

I've never before written "Tai Chi" and "tears" in the same sentence.

Today, I do.

Here's why.

In May, long-time Chicago Tai Chi student Marvin Cohen died from complications of pancreatic cancer. You can read my post about Marvin's passing here.

Last Spring, after a break from class during the early part of his treatment, Marvin returned to Tai Chi and Qigong classes. He remained upbeat, engaged, and a delight to have in class.

Marvin after a Zoom Tai Chi class.

Marvin started his Tai Chi journey when his wife Patricia brought him to his first class, six years ago.

I knew Marvin enjoyed Tai Chi and Qigong. He practiced diligently. Rarely missed a class. He regularly commented on the benefits he experienced— relaxation, increased mobility, a feeling of well-being.

He took his last class with me the week before he died.

I felt deep sadness when Patricia contacted me with the news.

Beneath the sadness, I felt hope that Tai Chi offered something positive to Marvin toward the end of his life.

Then, this weekend, I received the program from Marvin's Memorial Service.

I admired the handsome face on the cover, reflecting on sharing many hours in class with Marvin, observing his steady progress.

Then I looked inside the program.

I read this in his obituary.

"He loved taking Tai Chi classes."

That Tai Chi had become something Marvin loved in the last years, even the last days, of his life brought a major lump to my throat.

Then, two pages later, I read Marvin's two favorite quotes.

"Be Your Own Hero"

and

"Tai Chi is rooted in the feet.

Powered by the legs.

Controlled by the waist.

Expressed in the hands."

Quote #2 comes from a group of writings known as the Tai Chi Classics.

Marvin heard me recite it many times in class. It's an elegant expression of an essence of Tai Chi. A favorite quote of mine.

Became a favorite of his.

At that, the tears welled.

For Tai Chi to become such an important, meaningful part of a man's life.

That he enjoyed it during the last week in his body.

That his love for Tai Chi became an express part of his legacy.

This stirs deep emotion in me.

And reinforces the importance of what we're up to at Chicago Tai Chi.

Thank you Marvin, for being a bright light.

Take care,

Chris Cinnamon, JD, MS
Certified Exercise Physiologist
Head Instructor
Author, Tai Chi for Knee Health