The power of our body is no match for the sheer force of our intent.

As we understand the essence of Chi (pronounced "chee") we come to appreciate what it means to build our vital life force. Chi is the energy that keeps us alive and healthy. Chi is our life force. It is derived and generated from what we eat and drink. It is a result of what we do and think. It is effected by the people and environment all around us. It is molded by the thoughts and intentions that we carry with us from moment to moment.

The Shaolin monks understand this simplicity. Through rigorous training of the body and mind, they seek to build the quality of their Chi. In so doing, they build their "Te" (pronounced "day") or integrity. Te is how we are measured as a member of society. Society perceives us from how we are measured by our friends and family. Our friends and family see us through our actions and words. Action and words are driven by our thoughts and intentions.

breaking a stone	Shi Yan Ming breaking boards	Shi Deyang breaking bricks

As Chan Buddhists, the Shaolin monks spend much of their time in quiet contemplation, cultivating inner peace through sitting or slow moving Chi Kung practice. This system of deep breathing and conscious movement helps to bring focus and clarity to intention. When the pattern of moods are broken, one can act with balance and focus. With balance comes objectivity that seeks the truth of all situations. This is integrity, Te.

Applied to the martial arts, Te gives one honor. It helps us to hone our skills with the focus and drive to respect the history and legacy of the system we study and practice. Te rarefies our Chi, refines the essence of our energy. With this focus, we can direct our flow of Chi and deliver powerful blows that defy the physical effort behind them. It brings us into a calm security with who we are and how we move. Sparring from this centered space gives us true power.

Applied to everyday life, Te gives us confidence in our actions and interactions with people. Knowing that the quality of our thoughts affects those around us, we seek to bring positive energy and joy to all interactions. Chi moves within and through us, molded by our intentions. It catalyzes and contributes to those around us. Think of the times some negative person comes into the room and everyone is brought down with them. Then think of the time someone with good energy arrives and your whole attitude changes for the better. This is the powerful effect our Chi has on the world.

The intention we carry in our head and heart is more responsible for the outcome of an event than the actions we take or the words we speak. Taking the time to get in sync with our intention is a step toward building Te. Moving from a conscious and sincere intent with the hope of balance and compassion is to live with Te.

Amitabha (pronounced: o-mi-to-fo => Buddha Bless You.)