Story of Afaa Michael Weaver

 The word "East Baltimore" gives a certain meaning and prejudice to people. Afaa is rather a rare breed, who has overcome that prejudice and difficulty. This is a story of mental affliction and trauma from abuse, of inspirational spirit panning different class and culture, and of living ancient time in the contemporary world.

http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2008-10-12/news/0810010056_1_michael-weaver-chinese-poetry-afaa-michael


http://www.amazon.com/Government-Nature-Pitt-Poetry/dp/0822962314/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1355609699&sr=1-2


http://www.afaamweaver.com/

Retreat and Deflect

We have reached so far now up to the 20th position, "Step Back to Repulse Monkey." After the chilly 1-hr practice, we talked about what it means in real life by "stepping back" and "being repulsive." A member shared frustration with her teen-age children. Another shared his work experience, disconnecting himself from surroundings. Others shared similar difficulties facing strong force, for example, anxieties and intimidation that other people are dumping on us. Our teacher shared how we can respond, like stepping back but deflecting with kindness and respect. She is showing it with her service to others in this beautiful foggy morning.

A group of seagull circled around us, while we were doing the monkey business. Then, one brave seagull landed on the top of wooden column just a few feet from us. It was there for a while, checking us out.

how does the "weak" overcome the "strong"?

  ====> Chapter 36

the "Way" compared

Here is a totally-free version of Tao Te Ching (道德經), compared with other religious traditions.

Modern Day Mystic

I have a hope that mystics would be a uniting force in this religiously extreme world. But would it be possible by definition?

An old man in 516 BCE

Non-action, non-violence, and Tao

 From ... Taoism and nonviolence ...